SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cdl-medical-certificate-24-months

What is the longest a regular DOT medical examiner's certificate can be valid?

24 months.

Start playing free

  1. 24 months ✔
  2. 12 months
  3. 5 years

Why: Drivers must be examined and certified by a medical examiner at least every 24 months. Some conditions, like insulin-treated diabetes, need a yearly exam.

Huh, didn't know that: Since June 23, 2025, FMCSA sends new medical certificates to the state electronically, and the state posts the driver as certified.

The dad joke
Why was the truck sent to the doctor? It had a bad case of the brakes.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: 24 months. Drivers must be examined and certified by a medical examiner at least every 24 months. Some conditions, like insulin-treated diabetes, need a yearly exam.

  1. 49 CFR 391.45 Persons who must be medically examined and certified (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/section-391.45
    Any driver who has not been medically examined and certified as qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle during the preceding 24 months
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Cars & DrivingA driver whose diabetes is treated with insulin must be medically recertified how often?Cars & DrivingWhich CDL class do you need for a combination over 26,000 lbs towing a trailer over 10,000 lbs?Cars & DrivingA single truck rated 26,001 lbs or more, towing nothing over 10,000 lbs, needs which CDL class?

That's stuff everyone should know.