FMCSA Extends Paper Medical-Card Waiver Again

FMCSA extends paper medical-card waiver again- carry your wallet card!
What’s new (as of Oct. 9, 2025): FMCSA re-issued its temporary waiver so drivers can use a paper Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) as proof of medical certification for up to 60 days after the exam. The waiver runs Oct 13, 2025 → Jan 10, 2026, and FMCSA recommends medical examiners keep issuing the wallet card while states finish their system upgrades. 

Why this matters
Back in 2015, FMCSA’s Medical Examiner’s Certification Integration (NRII) rule shifted verification to the National Registry so states could check your medical status electronically instead of relying on paper cards. A correction to the rule was published in June 2015. But because some states still aren’t fully integrated, paper backups are still needed. 

In CVSA’s 2025 International Roadcheck (May 13–15), 493 U.S. drivers were put out of service for “No Medical Card,” accounting for 15.7% of driver OOS violations- a reminder that proof matters at the roadside. 

What drivers and carriers should do (now)

  • Get and keep a paper MEC (wallet card) from your medical examiner at the time of the exam, and carry it for 60 days post-exam. 
  • Submit a copy to your SDLA if your state still requires paper. 
  • Make sure your carrier has a copy for its files during the transition period. 

Where the holdup is
FMCSA notes some states remain noncompliant with NRII. Reporting has identified 12 states still not fully implemented: AK, CA, FL, IA, KY, LA, NH, NJ, NY, OK, VT, WY. North Carolina adopted the new rules on June 30, 2025 but has had system errors that incorrectly downgraded some CDLs. (FMCSA maintains NRII transition guidance and waivers; see official waiver below.) 

Official references you can show roadside or at the clinic

  • FMCSA Waiver (Oct 9, 2025) / Action Memo (effective Oct 13, 2025–Jan 10, 2026) — confirms 60-day paper MEC acceptance and recommends issuing the wallet card. 
  • NRII rule & correction (2015) — background on the electronic medical-certification integration. 

Bottom line
Until every state is fully integrated, treat the wallet MEC as your belt-and-suspenders. Carry it, submit it, and keep a copy on file with your carrier during the transition window. 

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