When you think about the most dangerous jobs, commercial driving might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, among US workers, truck drivers experience the third highest fatality rate, with the majority of those fatalities occurring in highway accidents.
Commercial driving is essential to our economy, but for the safety of drivers and the public, it is essential that drivers are physically and mentally capable of dealing with the stresses and demands of the job.
Truck driving requires workers who can make quick decisions, concentrate for long periods, maintain composure in stressful situations, and have level, rational personalities. Mental, psychiatric, or behavioral traits that interfere with these abilities put the driver and the wider public in danger.
Regulatory organizations, such as the Federal Motor Vehicle Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), are particularly concerned about anger, aggression, impulsiveness, hostility, and a disregard for the law. These traits, which may be associated with certain mental illnesses, put drivers at a significantly higher risk of causing an accident.
That said, just because you have been diagnosed with a mental health condition such as depression or ADHD does not necessarily mean that you can’t obtain a commercial driver’s license. When you see a certified medical examiner for your truck driver’s medical exam, your doctor will determine if you are managing your medical condition with an appropriate treatment routine and if it is safe for you to operate a commercial vehicle.
FMCSA Regulations Regarding Mental Health
There are three categories of risk that the FMCSA considers when developing regulations regarding mental health and commercial driving.
- The mental disorder itself, including symptoms that may pose a risk when driving
- Residual or lasting symptoms that occur after a single episode or initial presentation
- Medications to treat the disorder, as many psychotropic medications could interfere with safe driving
FMCSA guidelines require that a medical examiner assess any mental health condition on a case-by-case basis. The examiner will consider the specific disorder and symptoms, the effectiveness of treatment, the medications prescribed, and any interactions between medications.
A medical examiner can accommodate disqualifying conditions if the driver’s physician provides a letter stating that the disorder is managed effectively and that the medication will not prevent safe driving.
Disqualifying Mental Health Conditions
While medical examiners can make exemptions and accommodations, below is a list of DOT-disqualifying mental conditions:
- Dementia
- Personality disorder
- Active Psychosis/Schizophrenia
The more serious a disorder, the more likely it is that the driver will not be physically qualified. However, the medical examiner makes the decision of whether or not to qualify a driver.
Steps for Getting a CDL With a Mental Health Diagnosis
If you have received a diagnosis of a mental disorder, you might be worried about receiving or renewing your commercial driver’s license. With support, you can get an accurate diagnosis, find ways to manage your illness, pass a DOT medical exam, and obtain your CDL. Below are the steps you will need to follow:
Meet With a Healthcare Provider
If you suspect you might have a mental disorder or you have been diagnosed with one, your first step is to meet with your doctor to get a diagnosis and come up with a treatment plan. Ensure you are open about your desire to qualify for a commercial driver’s license. If you are transparent from the beginning, your healthcare provider can be clear about your options.
Obtain a DOT Medical Exam and Certificate
Before getting a commercial driver’s license, you will need to have a DOT physical exam. The medical examiner will evaluate your mental and physical health, stamina, and functional limitations, go over your medical history, and assess your drug and alcohol use.
You can prepare for your exam by bringing documentation detailing your medical history and prescription drugs. A letter from your physician describing your mental health treatment plan and a statement that you can perform your duties safely will speed up the process.
The medical examiner will send your results to the FMCSA whether you pass or not. If you pass the exam, you will be issued an FMCSA medical examiner’s certificate (MEC).
Follow-Up
For your safety and long-term health, it is important that you continue to follow up with your doctor to stay on top of your treatment and medication.
Mental Health Stigmas
Mental health issues are on the rise. Both men and women experience mental health challenges, but men are less likely to receive treatment due to the negative stigma surrounding mental disorders.
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or ADHD, you might be tempted to ignore them rather than risk your CDL. This is dangerous for you and the public. Ignored mental health issues can lead to anger and aggression, an inability to concentrate, drug and alcohol use, insomnia or excessive tiredness, or even an increase in risky behavior or thoughts of suicide.
It is possible to continue your career as a commercial driver with a mental disorder diagnosis, but only if you seek treatment to manage your challenges. Choose to prioritize your well-being and safety by consulting with your doctor and taking charge of your mental health.
Video
Infographic
If you have a mental disorder, you might worry about getting or renewing your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). With the right support, you can manage your condition, pass the DOT medical exam, and obtain your CDL. Check out this infographic for steps to follow.
