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 have a Digital Medical Examiner's Certificate on file to show you're medically qualified to drive. To learn more visit FMCSA’s Learning Center.  

If you currently don’t use your CDL and want to keep it, you still must certify, but you can change your status to something more appropriate for your current situation. If you don't keep your status updated, your license could be downgraded.

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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, these must be submitted electronically by your medical examiner.
  • 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.

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How do I update my self certification?

You will need to visit your medical provider before your certificate expires to ensure you have the most up-to-date certificate submitted through NRII. Visit your provider well before your current certificate expires to allow time for the data validation process.

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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

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. The provider will submit the medical certification, electronically, through the NRII database. 

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Resources

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Frequently Asked Questions

List items for Medical Cards & Certification FAQs

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