Driver Requirements
How long is a DOT medical certificate valid?
Updated September 1, 2026
A medical examiner's certificate is generally valid for up to 24 months. The examiner can issue one for a shorter period if there's a condition that needs monitoring — certificates issued for three months, six months or a year are common.
Where carriers get caught
Fleets that assume every certificate is a two-year certificate end up with drivers running on expired credentials. If you're tracking these manually, track the actual expiration date on each certificate rather than assuming a standard cycle.
This is general orientation, not legal or regulatory advice. Requirements change and vary by operation — confirm specifics with the relevant agency or a qualified advisor before acting on them.
Still stuck?
Check your carrier record, or talk to a compliance specialist.