More VA examiners will be able to conduct DOT physicals for military veterans

A final rule that aims to make it easier for military veterans to receive commercial driver’s licenses is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register on June 11.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration filed the final rule to the inspection docket on Friday, June 8.

As part of the final rule, health professionals employed by the Department of Veteran Affairs will be allowed to be listed on the agency’s National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The final rule was prompted by the Jobs for Our Heroes Act, which was signed into law by President Donald Trump in January.

Amending current regulations prompted by FAST Act, an alternative process will be established for qualified advanced practice nurses, doctors of chiropractic, doctors of medicine, doctors of osteopathy, physician assistants, and other medical professionals who are employed in the VA to be listed on the registry.

“Under today’s final rule, after successfully completing training and passing a test, both of which will be provided by FMCSA and delivered through a Web-based training system operated by the VA, these qualified VA examiners become certified VA medical examiners,” the final rule stated. “Certified VA medical examiners are only allowed to conduct medical examinations of, and issue medical examiner certificates to, veteran operators only.”

The Jobs for Our Heroes Act expanded eligibility to use the alternative process to “qualified examiner.” The FAST Act originally provided an alternative process for a “qualified physician.” The amendment allows additional VA health care professionals to apply to be on the registry and conduct Department of Transportation physicals for veterans.

The final rule will go in to effect 60 days after the date it is published in the Federal Register.