MEC (Medical Examiner's Certificate)
The official card (Form MCSA-5876) issued after a successful DOT physical, proving a driver is medically qualified to operate a CMV.
Key Facts
- Official wallet card: Form MCSA-5876
- Valid for 1 or 2 years depending on medical conditions
- Drivers must carry the original and provide a copy to employer
- Results reported electronically to FMCSA and state DMV
The Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC, Form MCSA-5876) is the wallet card issued by a National Registry-certified medical examiner after a driver passes the DOT physical examination. The certificate specifies the driver's qualification category: qualified for 2 years, qualified for 1 year (for conditions like treated hypertension), or qualified with restrictions (such as corrective lenses or hearing aids). Drivers must carry the original MEC and provide a copy to their employer. The medical examiner also reports the result electronically to FMCSA, which transmits it to the state driver licensing agency.
CMV Driver Credentials Compared
Licenses, certificates, and registrations required for commercial motor vehicle operators.
| Type | Issued By | Purpose | Validity Period | Required For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CDL | State DMV | License to operate CMVs | Per state renewal cycle | Vehicles > 26,001 lbs / 16+ passengers |
| MEC (DOT Card) | NRCME examiner | Proof of medical fitness | 1–2 years | All CDL holders |
| NRCME Listing | FMCSA | Certifies medical examiners | 10 years | Examiners performing DOT physicals |
| HOS Compliance | FMCSA / ELD | Tracks driving/on-duty time | Continuous | Most CMV drivers |
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