ALABAMA (WHNT) — Changes are coming for CDL drivers across the state. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Driver License Division says two major updates will impact Commercial Driver License holders and applicants in Alabama.
These changes are meant to improve road safety and streamline certification processes. These are aligned with federal guidelines and safety priorities.
As part of the implementation of National Registry II, and following Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations, ALEA will only accept DOT medical certifications via electronic submission from authorized medical providers starting June 23.
Key information for CDL Holders:
- Paper medical cards and online uploads will no longer be accepted.
- CDL holders can view or update their DOT medical card or self-certification by visitingwww.alabamadl.alea.gov under the “Commercial Drivers” tab.
- Check that your self-certification category is accurate. To make changes, use the SubmitSelf-Certification option under the Actions tab.
- If your DOT Medical Card information is missing or incorrect, please contact yourmedical examiner.
ALEA will transition to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators’ Modernized Version of the CDL Skills Test on July 1. The update includes major revisions to the Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control Skills portions of the test, while the Road Skills portion will stay the same.
Key updates to the Skills Test:
- Vehicle Inspection:The revised VI section removes redundant steps and places greater emphasis on safety-critical components. Updated terminology and test items reflect the latest technological advancements in commercial vehicles.
- Basic Control Skills:The BCS test will now consist of four maneuvers, introducing Forward Stop and Forward Offset Tracking. These additions are based on crash data indicating high rates of frontal impacts and side swipes involving commercial motor vehicles. The updated maneuvers will better assess a driver’s ability to control a vehicle in real-world scenarios.
Alabama’s CDL Supplemental Guide for Modernized Testing can be picked up at ALEA Driver License Offices across the state or downloaded by clicking here.
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