CDL Drivers Must Self-Certify by Jan. 30 or Face Penalties

01.09.2014
Issues & Policies

Connecticut businesses that employ commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders need to be aware of a new federal certification mandate. 

No later than Jan. 30, any individual holding a CDL license must log on to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles website and inform DMV of where they drive (interstate or intrastate), and whether or not they are required to hold a medical certificate. 

While drivers themselves must self-certify, any business employing any driver who fails to comply–and therefore holds a disqualified or downgraded CDL–could be cited and possibly fined for safety compliance violations.    

Medical Certificate

What’s more, all commercial learner’s permit or CDL holders also must provide the state with a current medical examiner’s certificate.

Drivers failing to provide an updated medical examiner’s certificate will be given a “non-certified” status in the state’s commercial driver’s license information system.  These drivers will be notified of that status by DMV, and if they continue to fail to comply, could have their CDL disqualified. 

Safety First

Although the new mandate could result in problems for employers if their employees fail to certify, the requirement is designed to increase driver safety. 

George Howe, chairman of Gregory & Howe, a Connecticut consulting firm that specializes in drug and alcohol testing, and managing safety and compliance programs, says, “The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is trying to address the lack of compliance regarding commercial drivers operating vehicles without medical cards. The new initiative is designed to change behavior and lead to safer driving.”

For more information, contact CBIA’s Eric Gjede (860.244.1931; eric.gjede@cbia.com; @egjede).

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