What is the purpose of the Medical Examination Report (MER)?

The Medical Examination Report (MER) serves a critical role in the evaluation process of commercial drivers by documenting the findings of their medical examinations. This report helps ensure that the driver meets the required medical standards set by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to operate a commercial vehicle safely. The MER includes information on the driver's medical history, vital signs, and physical examination results, which are essential in determining their fitness for duty.

This comprehensive documentation process helps protect public safety by identifying any potential medical conditions that could impair driving ability. Therefore, the focus is strictly on the driver's health status rather than their repair skills, knowledge of vehicle operation, or psychological assessments, which are not primary concerns of the MER. The MER's primary function centers on the physical and medical capacity to perform driving duties effectively, thereby safeguarding both the driver and the general public on the road.