What condition leads to a deferral for certification?

A deferral for certification is typically warranted in cases where a medical condition poses a significant risk to the safety of the individual or others. An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a device used to monitor and treat certain heart conditions, specifically those that can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias.

The presence of an ICD indicates that the person has a history of serious heart issues, such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Because these conditions can lead to sudden cardiac events, the individual may not meet the medical standards necessary for certification to operate a commercial vehicle. The use of an ICD requires thorough evaluation and often ongoing management, which can affect the individual’s ability to respond quickly and safely in a driving situation.

In contrast, stable vascular conditions do not necessarily preclude certification if they are well-managed and do not pose an immediate risk. Temporary fatigue can typically be resolved without lasting effects on fitness for duty, and minor injuries are often considered manageable within the context of certification, as they do not usually impact critical functions related to safely operating a vehicle.