Alabama is rolling out two major changes for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders and applicants. These updates are designed to enhance road safety, align with federal standards, and streamline the licensing process.
New CDL Rules for Alabama
1. DOT Medical Certifications Now Electronic
- Effective June 23, 2025, all DOT medical certifications must be submitted electronically by authorized medical examiners.
- Paper cards and self-uploaded documents will no longer be accepted.
- CDL holders can view and edit their medical status on alabamadl.alea.gov under the Commercial Drivers tab—check categories and correct errors promptly with your medical examiner
2. Modernized CDL Skills Test
Effective July 1, 2025, Alabama will adopt a modernized version of the CDL Skills Test, based on American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) guidelines.
What These Changes Mean for Alabama CDL Drivers
With Alabama's updated CDL process taking effect in mid-2025, now is the time for drivers—both current and prospective—to prepare. These changes are designed to make the roads safer and ensure the testing process reflects today’s trucking environment.
Here’s what you should do to stay ahead:
- Verify your DOT medical certification through Alabama’s online portal. This helps prevent certification lapses that could interrupt your ability to drive or renew your license.
- Review the new CDL Skills Test format, especially updates to the vehicle inspection and basic control skills portions. Familiarizing yourself with new maneuvers like Forward Stop and Forward Offset Tracking will give you a leg up on test day.
- Pick up the updated CDL Supplemental Guide from any ALEA driver license office or download it online here. It provides step-by-step details on the new test components and terminology—an essential resource for success.
Why It Matters
These updates are part of a larger effort to align Alabama’s licensing process with federal safety standards, including the National Registry II system and AAMVA testing protocols. By reducing redundancy in the inspection phase and adding crash data–informed maneuvers, the state is improving both efficiency and safety for all drivers on the road.
Alabama CDL Changes Are Now in Effect
These recent updates to Alabama’s CDL requirements — including electronic medical certification submissions and a revamped skills test — are officially live as of mid-2025.
If you are a current or aspiring driver, it’s important to stay informed and prepared for these new standards.
At Birmingham Freightliner, we’re here to keep you updated with the latest industry news and support to help you stay road-ready.
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