Every CMV driver needs a Driver Qualification File (DQF) under 49 CFR 391.51 containing their employment application, road test or CDL verification, motor vehicle record checks, and a current medical examiner's certificate confirming they're physically qualified to drive. Medical certificates are issued by an examiner listed on FMCSA's National Registry and typically expire in 1-2 years.
Under 391.51, a compliant DQF includes the driver's employment application, road test certificate or equivalent CDL verification, the motor vehicle record(s) obtained at hire and reviewed annually, and the medical examiner's certificate (or, for CDL holders, the CDLIS motor vehicle record showing current medical certification status).
A driver must pass a DOT physical performed by an examiner listed on FMCSA's National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners — using an examiner not on that registry doesn't satisfy the requirement, even if the exam itself was thorough. Certificates are generally valid for up to 2 years, but an examiner can issue a shorter certification period if a driver has a condition that needs closer monitoring.
No — it has to be performed by a medical examiner listed on FMCSA's National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. An exam from a doctor not on that registry doesn't satisfy the requirement, regardless of how thorough it was.
Up to 2 years is standard, but the examiner can issue a shorter certification period — sometimes as little as 3 or 12 months — if you have a health condition that needs more frequent monitoring.
Missing or incomplete DQF items are one of the most common violations found during FMCSA compliance reviews and can result in fines per violation per driver — it's worth auditing your own files against the 391.51 checklist before someone else does.
This is a plain-language summary for reference, not legal advice. Always verify current requirements against the official regulation text or consult a compliance professional for your specific operation.