NOTE: MnDOT does NOT issue waivers for drivers of a school bus as defined by Minnesota Statute §169.011 subd. 71. Please contact the Department of Public Safety, Division of Driver & Vehicle Services (DVS) for school bus medical waiver information.
Intrastate driver medical waivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the minimum physical qualification standards for a person who drives a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). Minnesota statutes adopt most of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) for driver qualifications, specifically Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, section 391.41.
Medical examination requirements
Before operating a CMV, drivers must complete a medical examination. The medical examination must be conducted by a licensed medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 221.0314, drivers who are not deemed physically qualified to drive a CMV may be granted an intrastate driver medical waiver by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). For these applicants, a more extensive (condition specific) examination of their medical condition by a licensed medical specialist is required.
Types of driver medical waivers
MnDOT has authority to grant a medical waiver to drivers who are not qualified under 49 CFR 391.41. There are four types of medical waivers available to Minnesota intrastate drivers:
Refer to the Intrastate Driver Medical Waiver Fact Sheet for more information on:
- how to obtain an intrastate driver medical waiver
- issued medical waiver cards
- driver reporting requirements