The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Driver License Division announced two major updates that will impact Commercial Driver License (CDL) holders across the state.

These updates align with federal guidelines and safety priorities aimed at improving road safety and streamlining certification processes, according to a release from ALEA. 

Mandatory electronic submission of DOT medical certifications will begin June 23. As a part of the implementation of National Registry II, in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, ALEA will only accept DOT medical certifications via electronic submission from authorized medical providers starting June 23. 

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 www.alabamadl.alea.gov under the “Commercial Drivers” tab. CDL holders will need to check that their self-certification category is accurate. To make changes, holders should use the “Submit Self-Certification” option under the “Actions” tab. If the DOT Medical Card information is missing – or incorrect – holders should contact their medical examiner.

Also, modernized CDL skills testing will begin July 1. ALEA will transition to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) Modernized Version of the CDL Skills Test, effective July 1. The update includes significant revisions to Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control Skills (BCS) positions of the test, while the road skills portion will remain unchanged. 

The revised Vehicle Inspection portion removes “redundant steps and places greater emphasis on safety-critical components.” Updated terminology and test items will reflect the latest technological advancement in commercial vehicles. 

The revised BCS test will consist of four maneuvers, introducing forward stop and forward offset tracking. The additions are based on crash data indicating high rates of frontal impacts and side swipes involving commercial motor vehicles. 

Alabama’s CDL Supplemental Guide for Modernized Testing can be picked up at ALEA Driver License Office across the state or be downloaded here.