Important Changes for Alabama CDL Holders from ALEA
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Driver License Division has announced significant updates affecting Commercial Driver License (CDL) holders and applicants throughout the state. These changes are designed to improve road safety and streamline certification processes, aligning with federal guidelines and safety priorities.
Mandatory Electronic Submission of DOT Medical Certifications Starting June 23, 2025
In compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations and as part of the implementation of National Registry II, ALEA will require electronic submission of Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certifications from authorized medical providers beginning June 23, 2025.
Key Information for CDL Holders:
- 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.
- Verify that your self-certification category is accurate. Use the Submit Self-Certification option under the Actions tab to make any necessary changes.
- If your DOT Medical Card information is missing or incorrect, please contact your medical examiner.
Modernized CDL Skills Test Begins July 1, 2025
Effective July 1, 2025, ALEA will transition to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) Modernized Version of the CDL Skills Test. This update includes substantial revisions to the Vehicle Inspection (VI) and Basic Control Skills (BCS) sections of the test, while the Road Skills portion will remain unchanged.
Key Updates to the Skills Test:
- Vehicle Inspection (VI): The revised VI section removes redundant steps and places greater emphasis on safety-critical components. Updated terminology and test items reflect the latest technological advancements in commercial vehicles.
- Basic Control Skills (BCS): The BCS test will now consist of four maneuvers, including Forward Stop and Forward Offset Tracking. These additions are based on crash data indicating high rates of frontal impacts and side swipes involving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). The updated maneuvers will better assess a driver’s ability to control a vehicle in real-world scenarios.
The Alabama CDL Supplemental Guide for Modernized Testing can be obtained at ALEA Driver License Offices across the state or downloaded at https://www.alea.gov/sites/default/files/Alabama%20CDL%20Manual%20Supplement%20for%20Modernized%20Version.pdf.
