FMCSA Extends Paper Med Certificate Waiver

FMCSA Extends Paper Medical Certificate Waiver (NRII): What MEs and Drivers Need to Know

Quick Summary
FMCSA has re-issued a temporary waiver that allows interstate CDL and CLP holders - and motor carriers - to rely on a paper copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) as proof of medical certification for up to 60 days after the certificate is issued. The waiver is effective January 11, 2026 through April 10, 2026, supporting the ongoing transition to secure electronic transmission of medical certification data under the National Registry II (NRII) final rule.

What the Waiver Does (Plain English)

  • Drivers and carriers may continue using a paper copy of the MEC as proof of certification for up to 60 days after issuance.
  • This is intended to reduce hardship caused by processing delays outside a driver’s or employer’s control during the NRII transition.
  • FMCSA recommends certified medical examiners continue issuing paper MECs in addition to submitting exam results electronically, when required, until further notice.

Who This Impacts

  • Interstate commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders
  • Commercial learner’s permit (CLP) holders
  • Motor carriers and employers who must verify a driver’s medical certification
  • Certified Medical Examiners (CMEs) submitting results during the NRII transition

Why FMCSA Re-Issued the Waiver
NRII requires secure electronic transmission of medical certification data. As State Driver’s Licensing Agencies (SDLAs) and CMEs continue transitioning, processing delays can occur. FMCSA determined re-issuing this waiver is in the public interest to prevent undue hardship on drivers with valid medical certification and their employers during the transition period.

Action Steps for Certified Medical Examiners

  1. Continue issuing paper Medical Examiner’s Certificates (MCSA-5876) to drivers.
  2. Continue submitting exam results electronically as required under NRII processes.
  3. Remind drivers and carriers that the paper certificate can be relied on for up to 60 days after issuance during the waiver window (Jan 11, 2026 – Apr 10, 2026).
  4. Encourage drivers to verify their medical certification status with their SDLA, especially if they are close to deadlines for renewals, hiring, or compliance checks.

How This Connects to NRCME Initial and Recertification Training

NRII updates and transitional policies like this waiver are exactly why staying current matters - whether you are becoming a Certified Medical Examiner for the first time or completing your five-year refresher training for recertification. In both initial NRCME training and recertification training, providers should be prepared to:

  • Understand current FMCSA guidance affecting day-to-day certification workflows
  • Document exams correctly and submit required information securely
  • Communicate clearly with drivers and employers about compliance timelines and acceptable proof of certification
  • Avoid preventable delays that can create compliance issues for drivers and carriers

Bottom Line
If you are a Certified Medical Examiner, keep issuing the paper certificate while following NRII electronic submission requirements. If you are a driver or carrier, remember this waiver allows reliance on the paper MEC for up to 60 days after issuance during the waiver period.

Source: FMCSA notice re-issued temporary waiver allowing paper MEC use for up to 60 days after issuance (effective Jan 11, 2026 – Apr 10, 2026).

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