What CMV Drivers and Employers Need to Know About the FMCSA’s Removal of Non-Compliant Medical Examiners
- willrothconsulting
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
On Friday, 11 April 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced its intent to remove two medical examiners from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners due to their failure to comply with federal regulations when conducting DOT physicals. This decision affects more than 15,000 commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers—and it underscores the importance of choosing compliant providers for every step of the DOT qualification process.
As a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), I’ve seen firsthand how regulatory missteps—whether intentional or not—can have serious consequences for drivers, employers, and safety programs.
What Happened?
The FMCSA identified that two Houston-based chiropractors, Dr. Jenny Le and Dr. Dustin Mai, issued thousands of medical certificates without properly following FMCSA’s physical qualification standards. These certificates were issued between March 2023 and March 2025, and they are now considered invalid.
If You’re a Driver...
If you received a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) from either of these two providers, you must:
Schedule a new DOT physical with a properly certified examiner listed on the National Registry.
Complete your new exam by 10 May 2025.
Submit your updated MEC to your State Driver Licensing Agency (SDLA) to avoid downgrading or suspension of your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Time is of the essence. Delayed action could disrupt your employment status and delay your return to duty, especially if you’re already in the SAP process.
If You’re an Employer or DER...
Employers and Designated Employer Representatives (DERs) should immediately notify affected drivers and ensure compliance before the May 10 deadline. It's also essential to:
Verify the credentials of medical examiners before accepting or filing MECs.
Review your internal processes for tracking medical certification renewals.
Consult with a DOT-qualified SAP or compliance expert for any cases involving disqualification, return-to-duty procedures, or Clearinghouse violations.
Why It Matters
The DOT medical certification process exists to ensure that drivers are physically capable of safely operating a CMV. When standards are not followed, it not only puts drivers at risk—but the entire supply chain. Regulatory compliance is more than checking boxes; it's about protecting lives on the road.
This enforcement action reminds all of us in the transportation industry that due diligence, verified professionals, and accountability are non-negotiables.
Conclusion
The FMCSA’s decision to remove non-compliant medical examiners from the National Registry serves as a critical reminder: compliance is not optional—it’s foundational. Whether you're behind the wheel or managing a safety program, staying informed and taking timely action protects not only your credentials, but also the safety of the motoring public.
At Willroth Consulting, we recognize the significant impact federal regulations have on both commercial drivers and employers. While we do not provide medical certification services, our expertise lies in guiding transportation professionals through one of the most critical and compliance-sensitive processes—the Return-to-Duty (RTD) process following a DOT drug or alcohol violation.
As a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), I am qualified to evaluate safety-sensitive employees who have violated DOT regulations and provide the required recommendations for education, treatment, follow-up testing, and aftercare, in full accordance with 49 CFR Part 40.
Whether you're a CDL driver navigating a violation, a DER assisting an employee through the RTD process, or simply seeking clarity on compliance obligations, Willroth Consulting is here to provide trusted, knowledgeable support every step of the way.
Let us help you move forward with confidence and remain compliant with DOT standards.
📞 501-733-9063📧 contactus@willrothconsulting.com 🌐 www.willrothconsulting.com
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