Changes coming to commercial driver licenses in Alabama

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - Commercial driver license holders in Alabama can soon expect some changes to the process of getting the license.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency says it is implementing a modernized CDL skills test and electronic medical certification submission for license holders and applicants. ALEA says the changes are aligned with federal guidelines and “aimed at improving road safety and streamlining certification processes.”

ALEA will only accept Department of Transportation medical certifications via electronic submission from authorized medical providers starting June 23.

What CDL holders need to know:

• 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 visiting alabamadl.alea.gov under the Commercial Drivers tab.
• Check that your self-certification category is accurate. To make changes, use the “submit self-certification” option under the Actions tab.
• If your DOT Medical Card information is missing or incorrect, contact your medical examiner.

The modernized skills test will start being administered July 1. ALEA says the update to the test includes changes to the Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control Skills parts of the test, but the Road Skills portion will not change.

The revised VI section removes redundant steps and places greater emphasis on safety components, with updated terminology to reflect the latest technological advancements in commercial vehicles, according to ALEA.

The BCS test will now consist of four maneuvers, introducing two new ones. ALEA says they were added based on crash data indicating high rates of frontal impacts and side swipes involving commercial vehicles, and will better assess a driver’s ability to control a vehicle in real-world scenarios.

CDL holders and applicants can pick up the CDL Supplemental Guide for Modernized Testing at ALEA Driver License Offices around the state or access it online.

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