If you move to a new state, do you need to change the address on your med. card?

 

it's not addressed, so I would say no
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regul...edical/faq.asp

 

Mine has my address on it.

 

The medical card does have the driver's address on it.

As to the question of having to put your new address on your current card if you move I would not write your new address or DL# on the card as that could be construed as tampering with a legal document. What I would do is, on a separate piece of paper write your new information and staple it to your current medical card. This would probably work in the short term. In the long term I would contact the doctor/clinic that did your physical and ask them to provide you with a new medical card with your updated information.

IMHO the big issue here is not with the address but rather with your DL# since that will change when you move to a new state and that is the one piece of information that actually proves the card is issued to you.

I really encourage you however to talk to your safety department about this as they should be able to provide you with a more accurate answer to your questions. If they can't then try contacting the FMCSA or your state commercial vehicle enforcement department, usually part of the state police office.

 

Actually...if you move to a new state, you are supposed to get a DOT physical from a doctor in that state, before getting your new license. I had a card that was 2 month's old, when I moved to Texas in 05. The office where I went to get my license changed over, had me get a physical before they would make the change.

 

Not all states require a CDL holder to have a med card when getting or renewing a DL, and those that do, most only require the card be valid.

 

The great state of WV requires the medcard's long form as proof. The "gotcha" is that they require that it's on their own long form. Meaning, even if you have a med card that is 1 day old, you have to go get another exam just so that they'll use the state's form.

That is, unless, they've changed it in the last couple of years.

 

I wonder how they can require that since the federal regs require everyone to use the same medical form and certificate (card).

 

Not sure on that one. I'm hoping that they've changed the policy and will take my current one this time around. I have to go in next week for my renewal and I've got a DOT med card that's 2 months old...

 

Typically medical examiner's certificates are valid for two years. There is no requirement by the FMCSR that a new card be issued for a change of address, any modification of a medical examiner's certificate is strictly forbidden it is an acute violation to modify a medical certificate. Employers may request a driver be examined by their physican if the driver desires to drive for them.

I can think of three states that require a current medical to be on file for the driver's CDL to be valid: IN, CA, and WI

Any form is acceptable provided it contains the essential information in Part 391. There is no set format. States are not employers there for the FMCSR regarding medical examiner's certificates do not apply to sthe state DMV.

Be safe.