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NRCME practice questions

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Question 1NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

What is the main purpose of the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners?

  1. To list examiners certified to perform CMV driver exams Correct answer.
  2. To set maximum driving times for property carriers
  3. To issue commercial driver's licenses to qualified applicants
  4. To administer CDL skills tests at state testing sites

Explanation

The NRCME is FMCSA's registry of healthcare professionals who have met training and testing requirements to perform medical examinations for commercial motor vehicle drivers. Drivers subject to the federal physical qualification standards must use an examiner listed on the registry.

Question 2NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Which federal agency administers the NRCME program?

  1. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
  2. Federal Aviation Administration
  3. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
  4. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Correct answer.

Explanation

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration administers the NRCME as part of its authority over commercial motor vehicle driver qualifications. The registry supports enforcement of the physical qualification standards in 49 CFR Part 391.

Question 3NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

An NRCME certification remains valid for how long before recertification is required?

  1. Two years
  2. Ten years Correct answer.
  3. For the examiner's professional lifetime
  4. Five years

Explanation

NRCME certification is valid for 10 years. Recertification requires meeting the program's requirements and passing the certification examination again.

Question 4NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Which form is the Driver Examination Report used by the medical examiner to record findings?

  1. MCSA-5870
  2. CDL-101
  3. MCSA-5876
  4. MCSA-5875 Correct answer.

Explanation

The MCSA-5875 is the Driver Examination Report on which the medical examiner records the examination findings. The MCSA-5876 is the Medical Examiner's Certificate issued to a qualified driver.

Question 5NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Where must a certified medical examiner be listed before a driver can use that examiner for a DOT physical?

  1. On the carrier's internal safety bulletin
  2. In the state CDL licensing manual
  3. On the FMCSA National Registry Correct answer.
  4. In the Federal Register only

Explanation

A medical examiner must be certified and listed on the FMCSA National Registry for a driver to use that examiner for a DOT physical. The registry allows drivers and employers to verify certification status.

Question 6NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

What is the maximum period for which a Medical Examiner's Certificate may be issued to a driver who meets all physical qualification standards?

  1. Five years
  2. Two years Correct answer.
  3. One year
  4. Six months

Explanation

A Medical Examiner's Certificate may be issued for up to two years when the driver meets the physical qualification standards. A shorter period may be appropriate when monitoring or follow-up is needed.

Question 7NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Which part of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations contains the physical qualification standards for commercial motor vehicle drivers?

  1. Part 396
  2. Part 390
  3. Part 395
  4. Part 391 Correct answer.

Explanation

49 CFR Part 391, Qualifications of Drivers, contains the physical qualification standards, including section 391.41. Parts 395 and 396 address hours of service and inspection/maintenance, respectively.

Question 8NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Which section of 49 CFR Part 391 addresses the medical examination and the medical examiner's certificate?

  1. 391.49
  2. 391.41
  3. 391.45
  4. 391.43 Correct answer.

Explanation

Section 391.43 governs the medical examination and the medical examiner's certificate. Section 391.41 contains the physical qualification standards themselves.

Question 9NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Since what date have drivers subject to the federal physical qualification standards generally been required to use a medical examiner listed on the NRCME?

  1. April 20, 2012
  2. May 21, 2014 Correct answer.
  3. October 1, 2016
  4. January 1, 2010

Explanation

The NRCME final rule was issued in 2012, and the compliance date requiring drivers to use listed medical examiners was May 21, 2014. Examiners not listed on the registry could not perform qualifying DOT examinations after that date.

Question 10NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

A medical examiner finds that a driver does not meet a physical qualification standard and no exemption or alternative program applies. What is the examiner's proper action?

  1. Issue a certificate limited to three months
  2. Refer the driver to the state CDL office for a waiver
  3. Decline to certify the driver Correct answer.
  4. Certify the driver if the employer requests it

Explanation

A medical examiner may certify a driver only when the driver meets the physical qualification standards or qualifies under an allowed FMCSA exemption or program. If neither applies, the examiner cannot issue a certificate.

Question 11NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

After completing a driver's medical examination, within what time must the medical examiner report the results to FMCSA through the National Registry?

  1. By the end of the calendar year
  2. 7 calendar days
  3. 1 business day Correct answer.
  4. 30 calendar days

Explanation

Medical examiners must transmit examination results to FMCSA through the National Registry within one business day of completing the examination. This reporting requirement applies to the examination outcome, not only to issued certificates.

Question 12NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

How long must a medical examiner retain records of a driver's medical examination?

  1. One year
  2. Ten years
  3. Three years Correct answer.
  4. Five years

Explanation

The medical examiner must retain the examination report and related certificate records for at least three years. These records support verification and program oversight.

Question 13NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Which credential is required for a healthcare professional to be eligible for NRCME certification?

  1. A valid, unrestricted health-professional license Correct answer.
  2. A commercial driver's license
  3. A state law enforcement commission
  4. A bachelor's degree in transportation safety with honors

Explanation

NRCME eligibility requires a valid, unrestricted license, certification, or registration to perform physical examinations, along with completion of training and testing. The other listed credentials do not qualify a person to perform DOT medical examinations.

Question 14NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Which circumstance can lead FMCSA to revoke a medical examiner's NRCME certification?

  1. Relocating to another state
  2. Performing fewer than 100 examinations per year
  3. Taking continuing education courses online
  4. Loss of an unrestricted professional license Correct answer.

Explanation

NRCME certification depends on maintaining the underlying professional license and complying with program requirements. Loss or restriction of that license is grounds for revocation.

Question 15NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Before an examiner can be certified by NRCME, the examiner must complete which requirement?

  1. Accredited ME training and a certification exam Correct answer.
  2. A minimum of five years as a carrier safety director
  3. A state police background check
  4. A CDL road test

Explanation

Before certification, an examiner must complete an FMCSA-accredited medical examiner training program and pass the NRCME certification examination. These requirements help ensure examiners know the federal standards and examination procedures.

Question 16NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Which document does the medical examiner issue to a driver who qualifies for medical certification?

  1. MCSA-5876 Correct answer.
  2. MCSA-5875
  3. MCSA-5870
  4. Form 1099-MISC

Explanation

The MCSA-5876 is the Medical Examiner's Certificate issued to a driver who qualifies. The MCSA-5875 is the examination report that documents the findings.

Question 17NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Which statement best describes the medical examiner's role under the FMCSA program?

  1. The examiner issues CDL endorsements after reviewing the driver's record
  2. The examiner applies federal standards and certifies only qualified drivers Correct answer.
  3. The examiner sets state-specific medical standards that replace the federal standards
  4. The examiner certifies any driver whose employer confirms the driver is safe

Explanation

The medical examiner is an independent gatekeeper who applies the federal physical qualification standards to each driver. Employer preference or inconsistent state rules do not replace those standards.

Question 18NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

A driver meets all physical qualification standards but has a condition that the medical examiner determines requires monitoring. What is the most appropriate certification action?

  1. Issue a shorter certificate with monitoring noted Correct answer.
  2. Issue a certificate for the full two-year period without conditions
  3. Refuse certification because monitoring conditions are never allowed
  4. Issue a certificate that expires only when the driver's license expires

Explanation

The certificate may not exceed two years, and the examiner may issue a shorter certificate with conditions or monitoring when clinically appropriate. Monitoring needs do not automatically disqualify a driver who otherwise meets the standards.

Question 19NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

When a medical examiner determines that a driver is not qualified, what reporting obligation applies?

  1. No report is needed because no certificate was issued
  2. The examiner must report only after the driver requests a review
  3. Only the employer must be told, and FMCSA is not notified
  4. Report the result to FMCSA through the National Registry Correct answer.

Explanation

Examination results, including disqualifying determinations, must be reported to FMCSA through the National Registry. The reporting duty is not limited to drivers who receive certificates.

Question 20NRCME program, medical examiner role, and regulatory framework

Which item must appear on a Medical Examiner's Certificate issued to a qualified driver?

  1. The driver's social security number
  2. The examiner's home address
  3. The examiner's registry number Correct answer.
  4. The driver's employer's USDOT number

Explanation

The Medical Examiner's Certificate identifies the examiner, including the examiner's National Registry identification number, along with driver and certification information. This helps verify that the examination was performed by a certified examiner.

Question 21Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

Under 49 CFR 391.41, a driver must have distant visual acuity of at least what level, with or without corrective lenses?

  1. 20/40 or better in each eye and 20/40 in both eyes together Correct answer.
  2. 20/70 or better in each eye and 20/70 in both eyes together
  3. 20/50 or better in each eye and 20/50 in both eyes together
  4. 20/60 or better in each eye and 20/60 in both eyes together

Explanation

The vision standard in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(1) requires distant visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye separately, with or without corrective lenses, and 20/40 with both eyes together. A driver who cannot reach 20/40 in each eye does not meet the standard and may qualify only through a vision exemption.

Question 22Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

What is the minimum field of vision a driver must have in each eye under the federal vision standard?

  1. At least 50 degrees in each eye
  2. At least 70 degrees in each eye Correct answer.
  3. At least 110 degrees in each eye
  4. At least 90 degrees in each eye

Explanation

49 CFR 391.41(b)(1) requires a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye. The field is measured per eye rather than as a combined binocular measurement, and a driver who fails this element is not qualified without an exemption.

Question 23Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

When hearing is screened by whispered voice, at what distance must the driver be able to perceive a forced whispered voice in the better ear?

  1. Not less than 4 feet, with or without a hearing aid
  2. Not less than 5 feet, with or without a hearing aid Correct answer.
  3. Not less than 3 feet, with or without a hearing aid
  4. Not less than 6 feet, with or without a hearing aid

Explanation

49 CFR 391.41(b)(2) permits qualification if the driver can perceive a forced whispered voice in the better ear at not less than 5 feet, with or without a hearing aid. If the driver needs a hearing aid to meet this standard, a corresponding restriction is placed on the certificate.

Question 24Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

When hearing is tested with an audiometer, the driver meets the federal standard if the average hearing loss in the better ear is no greater than what level at 500, 1,000, and 2,000 Hz?

  1. 40 decibels Correct answer.
  2. 35 decibels
  3. 25 decibels
  4. 30 decibels

Explanation

The audiometric alternative in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(2) is an average hearing loss in the better ear of not more than 40 decibels at 500, 1,000, and 2,000 Hz. The average is calculated across those three frequencies in the better ear.

Question 25Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

The vision standard requires that a driver be able to distinguish which set of colors?

  1. Red, blue, and yellow
  2. Red, green, and amber Correct answer.
  3. Red, green, and violet
  4. Green, blue, and white

Explanation

49 CFR 391.41(b)(1) requires the ability to recognize the colors of traffic signals and devices showing standard red, green, and amber. This element is evaluated separately from visual acuity and field of vision.

Question 26Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

What is the longest period for which a Medical Examiner's Certificate may be issued to a driver who meets the physical qualification standards?

  1. 36 months
  2. 12 months
  3. 24 months Correct answer.
  4. 18 months

Explanation

A Medical Examiner's Certificate may be issued for a maximum of 24 months, and the examiner may issue a shorter certificate when a condition requires monitoring. The 24-month maximum applies only when no follow-up interval is needed for a specific condition.

Question 27Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver's medical examiner's certificate expires while the driver is in the middle of a long-haul trip. Under Part 391, the driver:

  1. may continue driving until the current trip ends and then renew
  2. may keep driving if the motor carrier grants a written extension
  3. must stop driving a commercial motor vehicle until examined and certified again Correct answer.
  4. may drive for up to 30 days while waiting for an appointment

Explanation

49 CFR 391.45 requires a driver to be medically examined and certified before driving, and physical qualification lapses when the certificate expires. Neither a pending appointment nor a carrier's permission can extend the validity of an expired certificate.

Question 28Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A physician wishes to perform physical examinations for interstate commercial motor vehicle drivers. Which requirement must the physician meet?

  1. Be certified by FMCSA and listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners Correct answer.
  2. Hold a state medical license and register with the state department of transportation
  3. Complete the FMCSA online certification course one time only
  4. Be employed by a hospital or an occupational health clinic

Explanation

FMCSA certifies medical examiners through a testing and training process and maintains the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. Only examiners listed on the Registry may perform examinations that support a driver's medical certification for interstate operation.

Question 29Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver's blood pressure at examination is 186/112 mm Hg. Under FMCSA guidance, the examiner should:

  1. certify the driver for three months with a recheck required
  2. certify the driver for one year and refer to a primary care provider
  3. temporarily disqualify the driver until blood pressure is at or below 140/90 Correct answer.
  4. certify the driver for six months with no restriction

Explanation

A reading of 180/110 mm Hg or higher represents stage 3 hypertension, and the driver may not be certified at that level. Once blood pressure is controlled to below 140/90, the examiner may issue a six-month certificate.

Question 30Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

An applicant has a blood pressure of 166/102 mm Hg with no signs of end-organ damage. What certification period is appropriate under FMCSA guidance?

  1. Six months
  2. Twenty-four months
  3. Three months Correct answer.
  4. One year

Explanation

Readings from 160 to 179 systolic or 100 to 109 diastolic fall into stage 2 hypertension, for which the guidance calls for a three-month certification followed by recheck. This shorter interval allows the examiner to confirm that treatment is controlling the pressure.

Question 31Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver reports using insulin to control diabetes mellitus. Under the federal physical qualification standards, this driver:

  1. is qualified if a treating physician documents stable control
  2. does not meet the standard unless granted a federal exemption Correct answer.
  3. may be certified for one year if the HbA1c is below 8 percent
  4. may be certified for three months with fasting glucose logs

Explanation

49 CFR 391.41(b)(6) disqualifies a driver with an established history or clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus currently requiring insulin for control. Relief is available only through the individual exemption program administered under 49 CFR part 381, which uses the insulin-treated diabetes assessment form.

Question 32Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

Which element is part of the FMCSA insulin-treated diabetes exemption program?

  1. A commercial driver's license with no moving violations on record
  2. An HbA1c result below 6.5 percent documented at every quarterly visit
  3. At least five years of insulin use completed before applying
  4. No severe hypoglycemic episodes in the previous 12 months Correct answer.

Explanation

The insulin-treated diabetes exemption requires, among other things, no severe hypoglycemic episodes in the preceding 12 months, a stable insulin regimen of at least three years, and submission of the treating clinician's assessment form. Severe hypoglycemia is significant because it can produce incapacitation behind the wheel.

Question 33Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver has a clinical diagnosis of epilepsy. Under the physical qualification standards, the driver:

  1. may be certified if seizure-free for six months
  2. may be certified for one year while taking medication
  3. is qualified if all seizures occur during sleep
  4. is disqualified unless granted a federal exemption Correct answer.

Explanation

49 CFR 391.41(b)(7) disqualifies a driver with a clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition likely to cause loss of consciousness or loss of ability to control a motor vehicle. Medication or a short seizure-free interval does not restore qualification; only the individual exemption process can.

Question 34Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

Which finding is disqualifying under the cardiovascular standard in 49 CFR 391.41?

  1. A myocardial infarction five years ago without residual symptoms
  2. Blood pressure controlled at 134/86 mm Hg
  3. An asymptomatic heart murmur with normal function
  4. A current clinical diagnosis of angina pectoris Correct answer.

Explanation

The cardiovascular standard disqualifies a driver with a current clinical diagnosis of myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, coronary insufficiency, thrombosis, or another cardiovascular disease known to cause syncope, dyspnea, collapse, or congestive heart failure. A remote, fully recovered event without current symptoms is not automatically disqualifying.

Question 35Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver uses a medically prescribed narcotic. The driver may be certified when:

  1. the motor carrier signs a written waiver accepting the risk
  2. the prescribing physician advises that the drug will not impair driving ability Correct answer.
  3. the driver has taken the drug without side effects for more than one year
  4. the dose is taken only at bedtime and never before driving a commercial vehicle

Explanation

The drug provision in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(12) bars use of Schedule I substances and of amphetamines, narcotics, or other habit-forming drugs, but permits use of a prescribed drug when the prescribing physician is familiar with the driver's work and advises that it will not adversely affect driving. The judgment must come from the prescriber, not the carrier.

Question 36Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver who has lost a hand may legally operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce if the driver:

  1. passes a road test administered by the motor carrier
  2. has a physician's letter stating the driver can operate safely
  3. uses a prosthetic device approved by the state licensing agency
  4. holds a Skill Performance Evaluation certificate Correct answer.

Explanation

49 CFR 391.41(b)(10) disqualifies a driver with loss of a hand or limb unless the driver has been issued a Skill Performance Evaluation certificate under 49 CFR 391.49. The certificate is issued after a functional evaluation of the driver's ability to operate the vehicle safely.

Question 37Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

Under the physical qualification standards, a driver with a current clinical diagnosis of alcoholism:

  1. is qualified if liver function tests are normal
  2. is not physically qualified to drive Correct answer.
  3. may be certified if attending a support group
  4. may be certified for six months with monitoring

Explanation

49 CFR 391.41(b)(9) states that a driver must have no current clinical diagnosis of alcoholism. Because the standard is framed as a current diagnosis, an examiner evaluates whether the condition is present and active at the time of examination rather than relying on laboratory values alone.

Question 38Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

The respiratory standard in 49 CFR 391.41 requires that the driver have no established history or clinical diagnosis of a respiratory dysfunction likely to:

  1. require use of a CPAP machine during rest periods
  2. require supplemental oxygen within the next five years
  3. interfere with the ability to control and operate a CMV Correct answer.
  4. shorten life expectancy by more than five years

Explanation

The standard focuses on functional impact: a respiratory dysfunction is disqualifying when it is likely to interfere with the driver's ability to control and operate a commercial motor vehicle. Prognostic estimates, such as life expectancy or future oxygen needs, are not the regulatory test.

Question 39Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A CDL driver holds a federal vision exemption and is applying to renew a commercial driver's license. The driver must:

  1. submit a copy of the exemption only when the CDL is first issued
  2. carry a copy of the exemption in the cab but not report it to the licensing state
  3. obtain a state-issued waiver in place of the federal exemption
  4. self-certify as non-excepted interstate and provide the state a copy of the exemption Correct answer.

Explanation

Drivers must self-certify their operating category with the state licensing agency and provide a copy of any medical variance, including an exemption or Skill Performance Evaluation certificate. The state records the variance so that the certification status remains accurate at each renewal.

Question 40Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver has no light perception in one eye but 20/20 acuity and a full field in the other eye. Under the federal vision standard, this driver:

  1. is qualified if the remaining eye has 20/20 acuity
  2. does not meet the vision standard and needs an exemption Correct answer.
  3. is qualified if the remaining eye has a 70-degree field
  4. may be certified for one year with an ophthalmologist's report

Explanation

The standard requires acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye, so a driver with vision in only one eye cannot meet it on the examination alone. Such drivers may operate only if granted a vision exemption, and they must carry the exemption documentation and meet any conditions attached to it.

Question 41Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver meets the hearing standard only when wearing a hearing aid. What is the correct action by the medical examiner?

  1. Require an unaided audiometric test within 90 days
  2. Issue a certificate with a restriction requiring the aid while driving Correct answer.
  3. Disqualify the driver because hearing aids may not be used
  4. Certify the driver for a six-month period only

Explanation

The hearing standard allows the use of a hearing aid, and when the driver qualifies only with the device the certificate must carry a restriction requiring its use while driving. The restriction is recorded so that enforcement and the employer know the device is mandatory.

Question 42Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

Which document must the medical examiner issue to a driver who meets the physical qualification standards?

  1. MCSA-5870, the insulin-treated diabetes assessment form
  2. MCSA-5875, the medical examination report
  3. The driver's medical self-certification filed with the state
  4. MCSA-5876, the Medical Examiner's Certificate Correct answer.

Explanation

The examiner completes the medical examination report on Form MCSA-5875 and issues the Medical Examiner's Certificate on Form MCSA-5876 to a driver who qualifies. The certificate records the certification date, expiration date, and any restrictions.

Question 43Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

An applicant reaches 20/40 only when wearing eyeglasses. How should the medical examiner handle certification?

  1. Note a corrective-lens restriction on the certificate Correct answer.
  2. Permit driving without the lenses if the vehicle has two mirrors
  3. Require 20/20 without lenses at the next examination
  4. Require recertification every six months instead of annually

Explanation

A driver who needs corrective lenses to meet the acuity standard is qualified, but the certificate must carry a restriction requiring the lenses while driving. The restriction then appears on the driver's license and is enforceable.

Question 44Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A medical examiner may issue a certificate for less than the 24-month maximum when:

  1. the driver is older than 65 years of age
  2. the driver has held a CDL for less than one year
  3. a condition needs monitoring, such as stage 2 hypertension Correct answer.
  4. the motor carrier's policy requires annual driver examinations

Explanation

The examiner sets the certification interval based on the driver's medical status, and conditions requiring follow-up, such as stage 2 hypertension, call for shorter intervals. Age, experience, or an employer's preference does not determine the federal certification period.

Question 45Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver reports a single unprovoked seizure eight years ago, has taken no medication for six years, and has had no recurrence. How should the examiner proceed under Part 391?

  1. Certify for one year after review by a neurologist
  2. Certify for 24 months because the event was over five years ago
  3. Disqualify the driver; relief is available only by exemption Correct answer.
  4. Certify for six months and require an EEG before renewal

Explanation

A history of a seizure disorder is a condition likely to cause loss of consciousness or loss of vehicle control, which is disqualifying under 49 CFR 391.41(b)(7). Part 391 contains no waiting period that restores qualification, so the only route to certification is the individual exemption process under 49 CFR part 381.

Question 46Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

Which form does a medical examiner use to record the detailed results of a commercial driver physical examination?

  1. MCSA-5880
  2. MCSA-5875 Correct answer.
  3. MCSA-5876
  4. CDL-100

Explanation

The Medical Examination Report Form is MCSA-5875. The certificate issued to a qualified driver is MCSA-5876.

Question 47Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

Under the federal vision standard, what is the minimum horizontal field of vision required in each eye?

  1. 50 degrees
  2. 120 degrees
  3. 70 degrees Correct answer.
  4. 90 degrees

Explanation

The federal vision standard requires a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye. This is separate from the acuity requirement.

Question 48Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver is tested without a hearing aid. What is the minimum distance at which the driver must perceive a forced whispered voice in the better ear to meet the federal hearing standard?

  1. 3 feet
  2. 10 feet
  3. 2 feet
  4. 5 feet Correct answer.

Explanation

The standard is a forced whispered voice at not less than 5 feet in the better ear. The alternative is an audiometric average of 40 dB in the better ear.

Question 49Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver with diabetes mellitus treated with oral medication may be certified when the driver:

  1. maintains an A1c below 6.5% at every scheduled examination
  2. has no severe hypoglycemia or end-organ damage Correct answer.
  3. has used insulin at some point in the past
  4. obtains an FMCSA diabetes exemption

Explanation

Diabetes controlled by diet or oral medication is not automatically disqualifying. The examiner may certify if the condition is stable and there is no severe hypoglycemia or end-organ damage likely to interfere with driving.

Question 50Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and physical qualification standards (49 CFR Part 391, including 391.41 and related sections)

A driver who cannot meet the federal vision standard may operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce only if the driver:

  1. uses corrective lenses during all driving
  2. obtains a vision exemption from FMCSA Correct answer.
  3. has 20/40 acuity in the better eye only
  4. passes a state road test

Explanation

A driver who does not meet the vision standard needs a federal vision exemption. State road tests and corrective lenses do not create a vision variance when the standard is not met.