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How to Recertify as a DOT Medical Examiner

Use this 10-Year Renewal Guide to know exactly what you need to do to keep your NRCME certification and continue providing DOT physicals. 

Quick Summary (What You Need to Know)

  • NRCME certification is valid for 10 years

  • You can begin recertifying 12 months before your expiration date

  • Early recertification does NOT shorten your certification period

  • Starting the process early helps avoid delays or temporary removal from the NRCME registry

  • The recertification exam includes 120 questions, a 2-hour time limit, and requires a 71% to pass

  • This guide explains the NRCME recertification process, including timelines, required documents, exam expectations, and compliance steps
  • This guide also outlines common recertification pitfalls, and what to expect during the NRCME renewal exam

Need FMCSA-compliant recertification training?
➜ Start Your NRCME Recertification Training Here

What Is NRCME Recertification?

Every 10 years, medical examiners certified under the NRCME (National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners) must complete recertification to remain compliant and maintain the validity of their credential. Recertification ensures examiners stay current with:

  • Updated medical guidance
  • DOT physical exam procedures
  • Federal certification and reporting standards
  • Emerging conditions affecting commercial driver safety

Who Needs to Recertify And When

  • Any examiner listed on the NRCME registry who is in their 9th year of certification
  • Recertification should be completed before the current 10-year certification period ends to avoid removal from the registry
  • The clock starts from your original NRCME certification date. Don’t wait until the last minute

    How to Check Your Certification Expiration Date

    To find your expiration date:

    1. Log into your FMCSA National Registry account
    2. Click My Profile
    3. Select Manage User Information
    4. Look for the Certification Expiration field (top-right area)

    Recertification Process: Step-by-Step

    Here’s a high-level overview of the recertification workflow for medical examiners:

    1. Complete an FMCSA-compliant recertification training course
    2. Upload your training certificate to the NRCME portal
    3. Pass the proctored NRCME recertification exam
    4. Confirm your medical license is active/no disciplinary actions
    5. Ensure your information is up to date in the registry

    Note: Failure to recertify before your expiration date may result in removal from the registry, meaning you will no longer be authorized to perform regulated medical examinations.

    What the NRCME Recertification Exam Questions Are Like

    The exam ensures consistent decision-making across all CMEs. Questions typically present driver scenarios and ask how FMCSA rules apply.

    Exam basics:

    • 120 multiple-choice questions
    • 2-hour time limit
    • requires 71% to pass

    Preview the style of exam questions here: Free 30-Question NRCME Practice Test
    (No email required.)

    Common Mistakes & Pitfalls to Avoid

    • Waiting until the last minute: Begin the process several months before your expiration date to allow time for training and exam scheduling
    • Overlooking license renewal or licensure requirements: Recertification is contingent on an active, clean license
    • Failing to upload required documentation properly: Double-check that your certificate and license info meet NRCME guidelines
    • Not giving yourself time to retake the exam (if you fail the first time)  

    If You Don’t Pass the Exam

    If you do not pass:

    • There’s no longer a 30 day waiting period. You may retake whenever the next testing center appointment is available

    • You may continue performing DOT exams if your certification is still active

    • FMCSA will update your record once you pass

    You can also use our free 30-question NRCME practice test to check your knowledge and identify topics that may need additional review.

        FAQs – Recertification Questions Answered

        Is recertification mandatory for all NRCME certified examiners?

        Yes. To maintain an active status on the registry, recertification every 10 years is required.

        Can I recertify at any time before expiration?

        Yes. You can recertify anytime during your ninth year of certification. Starting early is recommended. Waiting until the last month increases risk (scheduling delays, exam availability, paperwork processing).

        What if I let my certification expire before recertifying?

        You risk removal from the registry and will not be able to perform DOT physical exams. Always recertify before the expiration date.

        Does NRCME require a specific training course to recertify?

        Not necessarily. Your training should be provided by an accredited FMCSA-compliant training organization. Training should cover:

        • DOT exam standards
        • Medical Examiner’s Handbook updates
        • Federal medical guidance
        • Clinical case-based decision making
        • Required DOT documentation

        If you’re ready to pursue a formal recertification course, please see our separate “NRCME Recertification Training” page which details available training options, pricing, and enrollment.

        Medical Review & Authorship

        Written by: Dr. Jeffrey Carlson – Chief Medical Officer
        Dr. Carlson leads TeamCME’s medical training programs and publishes regularly on DOT medical compliance and examiner best practices.

        Reviewed by: Dr. Michael Megehee, DC, NRCME – Founder & Senior Advisor
        FMCSA subject matter expert selected to help design the original NRCME educational curriculum and first exam questions.