If you hold a CDL with a hearing waiver, it is crucial that your DOT medical examiner correctly completes your physical examination form. The examiner must check the first bubble and the first inbox, and write “Hearing” on your medical card.

This step is essential to ensure your CDL remains active and is not downgraded due to an incomplete or incorrect medical certification.

Explanation Based on FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) Rules

If you have a hearing exemption (waiver) - your DOT medical examiner must indicate that you are medically qualified only when accompanied by the hearing exemption letter.

On your Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876):

• The examiner should check the first box (“Medical Examiner’s Certificate”) and the first box for the type of qualification, indicating that the driver is qualified.
• The examiner should write “Hearing” (or “Hearing Exemption”) in the “accompanied by” or “waiver/exemption” section on the medical card.
• This confirms that your medical qualification is valid with a hearing exemption.

If this note is missing, your state licensing agency (such as the DMV or DPS) may automatically downgrade your CDL, because their system will not recognize that you have a valid FMCSA hearing waiver on file.

Hearing Qualification Standards for CMV Drivers

Under federal regulations, a person is considered physically qualified to operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) if they meet one of the following hearing requirements:

1. Forced Whisper Test - The individual must be able to perceive a forced whispered voice in their better ear at a distance of at least five feet, with or without the use of a hearing aid.
2. Audiometric Test - If tested using an audiometric device, the individual must not have an average hearing loss in the better ear greater than 40 decibels at 500 Hz, 1,000 Hz, and 2,000 Hz, with or without a hearing aid. The audiometric device must be calibrated to American National Standard Z24.5-1951.

Individuals who do not meet these standards may still be eligible to operate a CMV by obtaining a Hearing Exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Hearing Aids: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Before your test: If you are applying for a hearing waiver, remove your hearing aids. The test needs to measure your natural hearing ability without any help.
2. During the test: The medical examiner will check your hearing in each ear. Do not use hearing aids during this step, or it could affect your eligibility.
3. After the test: Once your waiver is approved, you can use your hearing aids again in daily life and while driving.
4. Remember: Removing your hearing aids for the test is standard and required for FMCSA hearing waivers. It ensures your results are accurate and your waiver is valid.

Applying for a New Hearing Exemption

Step 1 - Obtain the Application

• Download the official FMCSA Hearing Exemption Application from the FMCSA website. (PDF files are located at the bottom of the FMCSA Hearing Exemption page under “Downloads”.)

Step 2 - Review the Sample Application

• Before filling out your form, review the sample hearing waiver application provided by FMCSA. This sample serves as a guideline for completing your own application correctly.

Step 3 - Gather Required Documents

Your application will not be processed without the following:

1. A completed hearing exemption application form.
2. Any supporting medical documentation requested by FMCSA.
3. Additional required forms outlined in the application instructions.

Step 4 - Seek Vocational Rehabilitation Assistance

• Contact your local Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) office to open a case. They may help cover the cost of:
• CDL tuition
• Interpreters
• Your DOT medical exam
• Complete your DOT physical exam with a certified medical examiner. If you qualify, the examiner will issue the Medical Examination Report (long form).

Step 5 - Find a CDL School

• Research and select a truck driving school willing to train deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

Step 6 - Submit the Application

• Send your completed application and all supporting documents to the FMCSA Hearing Exemption Division.
• If applying by email, clearly write in the subject line:
• mathematica
• CopyEdit
• (Your Full Name) - Hearing Exemption Application
• If the subject line is left blank, your application may be flagged as spam and discarded without review.

Step 7 - Application Timeline

• Processing can take up to 180 days.
• Stay in contact with the FMCSA Hearing Exemption Division for updates. Do not simply wait for the mail, proactive follow-up can prevent delays.

Step 8 - Prepare While You Wait

• Visit your state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to obtain a CDL Study Guide.
• Begin preparing for and passing the General Knowledge and Air Brakes written exams to earn your CDL Permit before enrolling in CDL training.

Renewing a Hearing Exemption

To renew your hearing exemption, you must submit the following at least 90 days before your current exemption expires:

1. Written Request

Include a brief letter or email stating:

“I am writing to request the renewal of my hearing exemption.”

2. Driving Record

Provide a copy of your most recent three-year driving record (all pages).

3. CDL Copy

Provide a clear copy of the front and back of your current Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

4. Current Hearing Exemption

Provide a copy of your existing FMCSA-issued hearing waiver.

5. DOT Medical Card

Provide a copy of your valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Medical Card).

6. Medical Information Release Authorization

Provide a signed release form authorizing FMCSA to access your medical information.

Submission Format

All required documents must be combined into a single PDF file before submission. Submitting one complete PDF ensures that all materials are received together, prevents documents from being separated or lost, and allows the FMCSA to review your renewal request efficiently.

Submission and Follow-up

• Email the combined PDF to the FMCSA Hearing Exemption Division.
• Contact the division or use the status-check link provided in your original exemption packet to confirm receipt of your renewal request.

Important:

Failure to submit your renewal request on time may result in a lapse of your exemption, which can prevent you from legally operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).