Self Certification Requirements for CDL Drivers

Self-Certification Requirements for CDL Drivers

For the past several months CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) drivers in Michigan have been receiving notices to complete a self-certification which is required, and also of which has a deadline that is fast approaching, January 30th, 2014. While many Michigan CDL drivers have already completed the requirement set in motion, many more still have questions regarding how to start the process or even when or if they are required to re-file after filing their self-certification initially. If you have already submitted your self-certification, then you have nothing more to be concerned with. This article, however is meant to inform any CDL drivers who drive for a company based in the state of Michigan and who may have questions or concerns of the requirements of the self-certification process.

  • First and foremost, drivers who want to maintain their CDL must meet the January 30th, 2014 deadline.
  • Drivers who are non-excepted interstate drivers must keep their current and valid medical examiner’s certificate on file with the Secretary of State. When your medical examiner’s certificate expires, you must send your new copy or your CDL privileges will terminate.
  • Non-excepted intrastate drivers are not required to submit their medical examiner’s certificate, but they must keep their medical examiner’s certificate in their possession at all times while driving any commercial vehicle.
  • Finally, drivers of commercial vehicles with an actual gross weight or a gross vehicle weight rating of over 10,000 lbs. (but less than 26,001 lbs.), must additionally keep their valid medical examiner’s certificate when operating their commercial vehicle(s) at any given time.

Michigan CDL drivers can register and certify themselves online by simply visiting: www.michigan.gov/cdl or in person by visiting their local Secretary of State branch office. More information is additionally available via the website; as well as answers to any questions or concerns that any driver may have regarding driving in Michigan with a CDL license.