What is the maximum certification interval for a driver who has had heart failure?

The maximum certification interval for a driver who has a history of heart failure is one year. This timeframe is aligned with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines that emphasize monitoring the health conditions of drivers, particularly those with serious medical issues like heart failure.

Drivers diagnosed with heart failure must undergo a rigorous evaluation to ensure they can operate a commercial motor vehicle safely. If the driver is stable, free of symptoms, and meets other medical standards, the medical examiner may grant a certification of up to one year.

This one-year interval serves as a balance between allowing drivers to maintain their livelihood while ensuring that they are regularly assessed for health changes that could impact their ability to drive safely. It is crucial for drivers with significant medical conditions to have frequent evaluations to monitor their health status and mitigate risks on the road.