HAL TAYLOR, SECRETARY, ALEA
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is implementing significant changes for Commercial Driver License (CDL) holders and applicants across the state. These updates are designed to enhance road safety and streamline certification procedures, aligning with federal guidelines and safety priorities.
Mandatory Electronic Submission of DOT Medical Certifications Starts June 23, 2025
In accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations and as part of the National Registry II implementation, ALEA will exclusively accept DOT medical certifications through electronic submission from authorized medical providers, effective 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 and self-certification by visiting www.alabamadl.alea.gov under the “Commercial Drivers” tab.
- Ensure your self-certification category is accurate. Use the “Submit Self-Certification” option under the “Actions” tab to make changes.
- If your DOT Medical Card information is missing or incorrect, contact your medical examiner.
Modernized CDL Skills Test Begins July 1, 2025
Starting July 1, 2025, ALEA will transition to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) Modernized Version of the CDL Skills Test. The update includes substantial revisions to the Vehicle Inspection (VI) and Basic Control Skills (BCS) portions of the test, while the Road Skills portion will remain unchanged.
Key Updates to the Skills Test:
- Vehicle Inspection (VI): The updated VI section eliminates redundant steps and emphasizes safety-critical components. Updated terminology and test items reflect advancements in commercial vehicle technology.
- Basic Control Skills (BCS): The BCS test will now include four maneuvers, incorporating 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 is available at ALEA Driver License Offices statewide or can be downloaded at https://www.alea.gov/sites/default/files/Alabama%20CDL%20Manual%20Supplement%20for%20Modernized%20Version.pdf.
