Medical Cards & Certification

If you have or are getting a CDL (Commercial Driver's License), you need to tell the DMV what kind of driving you do (self-certify) every time you receive a CDL product.

If you certify for interstate driving where you, your passengers or your cargo cross state lines without special exceptions, you must provide the DMV a Medical Examiner's Certificate to show you're medically qualified to drive. You need to ensure that your certificate is up to date and on file with us. You can send it to the DMV online, by mail, fax, or in person. If you don't keep it updated, your license could be downgraded.

If you currently don’t use your CDL and want to keep it, you still must self-certify, but you can change your status to something more appropriate for your current situation. The status you self-certify to can be changed at any time.

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Self Certification

When you get a CDL, the license examiner will ask you to choose what kind of driving you do. First, you’ll decide if your passengers and/or your cargo will cross state lines (interstate driving) or if you, your passengers and/or your cargo will operate only in Iowa (intrastate driving). This choice matters because it affects the rules you follow. Interstate drivers need to follow different rules than intrastate drivers.

There are four categories to choose from:

  • Nonexcepted Interstate: Must have a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate on file with the DMV.
  • Excepted Interstate: No Medical Examiner’s certificate is necessary, however driving options are limited.
  • Nonexcepted Intrastate: (will have a “K” restriction added to your CDL) Must have a Medical Certificate with you while driving, but not necessary to turn into the DMV.
  • Excepted Intrastate: (will have a “K” restriction added to your CDL) No medical certificate needed, however driving options are limited.
  • Check your CDL certification status (You will need your Iowa CDL driver's license number)

Download the Certification Brochure to determine which category applies to you.


How do I update my self certification?

Changing your self-certification status

If you are changing from interstate to intrastate or vice versa, you will need to make an appointment to come into the DMV to update your CDL to either add or remove the “K” restriction.

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Medical Certification (short form)

To get a Medical Examiner's Certificate, you need to see a doctor who is active on a Federally approved special list called the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. Find a doctor on the National Registry.


How do I submit my medical certificate?

  • Online:
    Submit a copy of your medical certificate online. This is the fastest method and eliminates waiting in line at the DMV.
  • By fax:
    Fax the certificate to 515-239-1837; however, this method takes extra steps for our staff to be able to view the document you faxed. Please allow processing time for this to appear in your file.
  • In person:
    Present the certificate in person at any DMV or County Treasurer’s office. This may require you to wait to ensure we have all the information needed to avoid multiple trips.
  • By mail:
    Mail the certificate to:
    Iowa Department of Transportation
    P.O. Box 9204
    Des Moines, IA 50306-9204

Login to view your medical card status (You will need your Iowa driver's license number.)

In addition to submitting your medical certificate to the DMV, you must also carry it with you while driving.

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Resources

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Frequently Asked Questions

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