A skills performance evaluation (SPE) occurs when a potential or current truck driver wishes to earn or maintain a CDL after losing or impairing one or more of their limbs. Every two years, CDL holders must undergo a physical exam to determine physical readiness related to driving.
If a driver fails any aspect of the physical, such as vision tests or hearing tests, he or she can file for an exemption, known as a variance. There are several kinds of variances, including an SPE, which is an exemption for extremities that fail their DOT medical exam.
How Does a Skill Performance Evaluation Work?
Once a driver fails part of his or her medical exam relative to limb function, which can include total loss of a limb, they must apply via letter to the FMCSA for an SPE in order to prove competency without the use of their injured or missing limb(s).
If the FMCSA approves the driver for an SPE, the driver must submit all of the required materials and await a decision from the FMCSA regarding their variance request to continue driving as a CDL driver.
Requirements Need To Apply For an SPE Certificate
Here is a list of all the required information needed when applying for an SPE certificate.
Download the SPE Application
The first step is downloading the application from the FMCSA website. It can be filled out online or printed, completed, and mailed. The application provides detailed instructions about all of the necessary accompanying paperwork and information.
Complete the Application
There are two options when completing the application. The first is a joint application, which includes information from the company that will be employing the driver seeking an SPE. The other is a unilateral application, which is solely on the driver. Instructions on the application are clear.
Identify If Otherwise Qualified
If filing a joint application with a potential (or current) employer, the employer must certify that the driver is otherwise qualified to maintain their CDL. In other words, this is a stamp of approval from an industry professional stating that the driver would have passed their medical examination if not for the limb(s) that failed.
Signature of Applicant
The FMCSA is very clear that incomplete applications will not be considered, and this includes the need for a signature of the applicant for a unilateral application and the signatures of both parties involved in a joint application.
Letter of Application for an SPE Certificate
After downloading the application, you do, indeed, need to make sure you complete it correctly and provide it to the FMCSA when requesting your SPE.
Road Test
One of the accompanying pieces of paperwork or digital equivalent that must be sent with an application is a copy of a successful CDL road test, which can only be made by appointment with your state’s DOT. A quick Google of “CDL road test [insert state]” will take you to an appointment page.
State Motor Vehicle Driving Record
One of the biggest factors that will serve as proof of competence is a driving record for the past 3 years from the state you hope to operate your vehicle in under the SPE exemption. Make sure your driving record is from the past 3 years or else your application will not be accepted!
Supply Employers With Copies of SPE Certification
When filing for a joint SPE, your employer should also receive copies of all of the information you’ll be sending to the FMCSA and be knowledgeable about your case, as they may reach out to discuss your SPE.
Where Should I Send the SPE Application Letter To?
Once everything is completed and shared with your employer for joint applicants, the application should be mailed to the medical program specialist in the state where you hold legal residency. Be sure to keep copies of everything!
Don’t Let an Injury Keep You From Driving
Accidents happen, but variances exist so they don’t have to be the reason a trucker’s career is over. Whether you’re an experienced CDL holder or someone looking into a career as a truck driver, an ailment to a limb does not mean you have to find a new career path. It does mean you’re very likely to fail your state’s DOT medical examination, however.
Instructions on the SPE application are very clear, and though the FMCSA’s main priority is safety, they are not out to prevent capable drivers from doing their jobs.
FAQ
An SPE certificate is a document that serves as proof that a driver who failed a part of their physical examination related to limb function is, indeed, qualified to hold a CDL and work as a commercial driver.
Simply search your state and “skill performance evaluation.” There are downloadable copies and information on helping you fill out the sections.
Yes! They will fail certain parts, but that is why a SPE exists, to allow these individuals to prove their competency regarding operating a truck with a CDL.