The Sconi

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is among the initial states to implement a federal regulation that simplifies medical documentation for commercial drivers.

Starting April 13, 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will provide the Wisconsin DMV with Commercial Driver License (CDL) holders’ medical information within 48 hours of their DOT physical examination. Previously, drivers would receive a medical certificate, or Fed Med card, and were responsible for submitting it to the DMV. The process is now managed electronically.

“Wisconsin DMV has made it easier than ever for commercial drivers to provide the necessary medical information,” DMV Administrator Tommy Winkler said. “Submitting the required documentation is no longer a multi-step process. Now, after commercial drivers complete their physical, the medical provider will submit the paperwork into the National Registry and FMCSA will automatically transmit it to Wisconsin DMV which updates DMV’s records.”

With this updated process, called National Registry II (NRII), DMV will not accept paper, in-person, email, faxed, or uploaded information after Saturday, April 12, 2025. CDL drivers must still maintain valid medical examination certificates. Additionally, Wisconsin Tier 3 drivers with exam dates before April 13, 2025, as noted on their card, may need to carry their Fed Med cards until they receive an updated card with an exam date after April 13, 2025.

Wisconsin is one of the first states to implement the Medical Certification Integration Final Rule. The FMCSA will enforce the rule nationwide on June 23, 2025. The Wisconsin DMV’s efforts to streamline this process aim to ensure that only medically cleared drivers operate commercial motor vehicles. WisDOT’s initiative reflects its leadership in developing and operating a safe and efficient transportation system.