CDL Drivers are starting to notice Colorado's new medical rules. We were supposed to update our medical cards, at least, every two years. But we only needed to renew our Commercial Driver's License (CDL) every four years.
Some of us let our medical cards lapse for a few months before going to a doctor. No big deal, as long we didn't drive a commercial vehicle or cross a port of entry, it worked out. Just get a physical before renewing your license.
The DMV figured out our system. If you have recently been to a DMV, you saw them enter the expiration date of your medical card into the computer. This is new. In the past, they just visually inspected the card in the past and never noted the expiration date.
If you do not notify the DMV about the next time you get a physical, they will cancel your driver's license, not just your CDL. They will send a warning letter first, stating that you are in violation. It is serious. Make sure you follow up.
Everyone must comply by January 31, 2014. It is easy if you renewed your CDL before that date (They have already noted your information).
The State must have everyone caught up by then. They know 20,000 people will miss this deadline because they did not need to renew their CDL by the end of January. If you have not renewed your CDL recently, you must send the State of Colorado a copy of your physical.
Don't worry too much. They made it pretty easy for you to comply with the regulation. You just need to do it. We've outlined the steps for you below, complete with links to the forms, and important phone and fax numbers.
Submitting your Medical DOT to Colorado
- Print the following document: DR2904 CDL Self Certification and Attach the DOT Medical Card (do not attach the long form. Just a copy of your card)and fax it to: 303-205-5709 Attn: CDL Unit
The form has some confusing government language.
Please mark the applicable box:
A. Non-excepted Interstate - A person must certify that he or she operates or expects to operate in interstate commerce,
is both subject to and meets the qualification requirements under 49 CFR part 391 and is required to obtain a medical
examiners certificate
B. Excepted Interstate - A person must certify that he or she operates or expects to operate in interstate commerce,
but engages exclusively in transportation or operations excepted under 49 CFR 390.3(f), 391.2, 391.68 or 398.3.
C. Non Excepted Intrastate – A person must certify that he or she operates only in intrastate commerce and therefore
is subject to State driver qualification requirements.
D. Excepted Intrastate – A person must certify that he or she operates in intrastate commerce but engages exclusively in transportation or operations excepted from all or parts of the State Driver qualification requirements
Everyone should check box A stating that you want to be qualified for Non-excepted Interstate. The only reason to bother with B,C or D is if you are under 21 or have a medical waiver from the Colorado State Patrol.
Check Box A. I can't say it enough. Even if you will never cross state lines. The term
"expects to operate in interstate commerce" does not mean crossing state lines in a truck. It means participates in interstate commerce. If you transport any goods that EVER come across state lines: you are participating in interstate commerce.
Check Box A.
- Verify they have received your forms by calling: 303-205-5843. After you fax your form, they expect to have your information entered within 48 hours. This phone number connects you directly to the people entering the information.
- If you need any administrative help, please call this number: 303-205-5646.
If you are a CDL driver and need any additional help, please call CDL College at 303-367-1030.
