DOT MEDICAL CARD QUESTION

First off, what did you get arrested for? Most companirs wont hire fellons. If you have a license, it is valid until it runs out. Since your incarcerated you may be able to apply online for a renewal. Tho it isnt likely you will get renewed during incarceration. You will have to wait until your out of jail. Then its only a matter of getting a new medical card and getting your license renewed.

 

In lots of states your CDL will be downgraded until you can make an appointment to provide them with the information to update the medcard or place a "K" restriction on the CDL.

 

Right; get a new physical as soon as you're released and your cdl will be good.
Also, register with the Drug & Alcohol Clearing House.
Read this thread --->
FMCSA drug and Alcohol clearing house

 

Something else to check on is a rehabilitation course when you get out. The state might pay for it.
An example is upgrading your Class-B to a Class-A. The state might pay for school to do that.
Having a Class-A CDL gives you more job opportunities. You can still drive Class-B trucks, but can also drive Class-A trucks.

 

I'm sorry, but most likely you are going to have your CDL downgraded. I don't know your situation, but I don't think you will be able to get a DOT card while inside. I am not trying to be a gloomy Gus! I just don't like to blow sunshine up a rear end either. Until you let us know what state you have your CDL there is no way to fully answer your question. Based on your post it looks like you will be going at least 13 months after the current physical expires. In some places, you will have to retest after that long. We need more information! It is true some states will upgrade you back if you get a physical. The problem is some will not. The time periods vary.

I would also like to bring up another point. Because most Jails/Prisons don't allow inmates to access social media type sites, it seems your current custodian is a bit liberal. I am wondering maybe IF you can get your current custodian to allow you to get a physical while inside. It will cost more, but you won't know unless you ask.

 

In order to keep your CDL, some states will allow a CDL holder to certify in a category that does not require a medical certificate e.g. Intrastate Excepted, if they are not currently driving. ... This will give you a way to maintain your CDL without a current medical card.

Check to see if your state is one that allows this.

 

The OP is incarcerated right now. If he could do this he could also get a physical. I am not 100% sure you can do this without showing up at DMV in person.