Self-Certification (Driver Category)

Definition

Self-certification is the process under 49 CFR §383.71 by which a CDL holder declares the type of operation they conduct - non-excepted interstate (NI), excepted interstate (EI), non-excepted intrastate (NA), or excepted intrastate (EA). The self-certification determines whether the driver must submit a current DOT medical examiner certificate to the state CDL agency. NI drivers must keep the medical card on file with the state at all times; failure to maintain a valid medical certificate is the most common cause of CDL "downgrade" actions. Drivers must update self-certification when their operation type changes (e.g., a regional driver moving to a hazmat-only intrastate role).