Keeping your CDL

All you have to do is keep your medical card up to date.

The fmcsa screwed us when they put into effect the new regulations allowing the state's to revoke or suspend cdls and force the person to go through the entire process again.

 

As long as you keep your medical card current you will be fine. You don't have to drive to keep it.

 

I just recently went through this. Due to needing to renew my license before I was going to be leaving the country, and not having a current medical card, I let my CDL lapse. Caveat. With Michigan, as long as it's less than one year gap, you can reinstate your CDL without any testing, just bring in a current med card.

 

I beg to differ. You can keep your CDL without a valid medical card. Contact your DMV or go to their website and self certify. In NC they put a restriction K on it to show you are basically self certified and cannot drive intra or inter until you obtain a valid med card.

I have had my CDL for 7 years and not driving and just had it renewed without a valid med card. I just self certified. If you have questions call your local DMV. But I find most DMV's have the information on their websites.

 

In MI if you self certify as exempt you will need to visit your local DMV as they place a restriction K also on your license. You do not need a valid med card.

http://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,8611,7-127-1627_8669_53324-268586--,00.html

 

Which state?

 

Your CDL is valid until it's expiration date, unless it's revoked for any reason. It's a little too soon to worry about not finding work...you will be able to find something.

 

Most states since your medical card is registered with the DMV, if you let your Medical Card lapse and you do not self-certify with the DMV, then they will downgrade your license. Usually a letter is sent out first. It does not matter if your CDL is still valid, if medical is expired, then downgrade the license.

That is why if you are going to be off the road, but want to retain your CDL, contact your DMV and self-certify.

As noted, NC and MI you have to physically go to the DMV since they will have you self-certify on site and reissue your CDL with a Restriction K. This just started last year.

 

That is correct, my bad for not catching that...