In my experience here in Charlotte, most drivers who need an SPE exemption already come to me with an active SPE certificate in hand. They’ve previously gone through the federal approval process and simply need their routine DOT physical to maintain their medical card.

In those cases, my role is to:

• Verify the SPE certificate is current

• Ensure all conditions listed on the certificate are being followed

• Confirm the driver continues to meet all other DOT medical standards (vision, hearing, blood pressure, etc.)

• Document any required prosthetics or vehicle modifications

As long as everything is in order and the driver remains medically qualified, I can issue the DOT medical certificate consistent with the SPE conditions.

However, there are situations where a driver comes in for a DOT physical and does not yet have an SPE certificate — and during my examination, I determine that one may be required.

For example, if I find that a limb impairment prevents the driver from meeting the standard physical qualification requirements under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations, I cannot simply issue a medical card without further steps. In that case, I will explain:

• Why the impairment does not meet standard limb qualification criteria

• Whether the driver may qualify under the SPE program

• What the federal application process involves

If an SPE is needed, the driver must apply directly through the FMCSA. That process includes submitting medical documentation and completing a specialized skills performance evaluation to demonstrate safe operation of a commercial motor vehicle.

It’s important to understand that I do not issue the SPE certificate myself — that decision is made at the federal level. My role is to determine medical eligibility and guide the driver appropriately.