DL 546A Form – The DL 546A form, officially titled Physician’s Health Report, is a required California DMV document used to evaluate a driver’s physical and medical fitness for specific non-commercial driver licenses. This one-page PDF helps ensure drivers meet safety standards for operating larger vehicles. It is not for commercial driver’s licenses (CDL), which require separate federal medical forms.
What Is the DL 546A Form?
The DL 546A is the Physician’s Health Report (form number DL 546A, revision 5/2016). The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses it to assess whether a driver has any medical conditions that could impair safe vehicle operation. A licensed physician must complete the form after examining the patient. The driver signs to consent to the release of medical information and certifies the information under penalty of perjury.
Key features include:
- Patient identification section
- 14 yes/no health questions covering vision, hearing, diabetes, heart conditions, neurological issues, and more
- Visual acuity measurements (corrected and uncorrected)
- Blood pressure reading
- Physician certification and signature
The form is clearly labeled “DO NOT use this form for Commercial Licensing Requirements.”
Who Needs the DL 546A Physician Health Report?
California requires the DL 546A primarily for:
- Non-commercial Class A and Class B driver licenses (e.g., large recreational vehicles, trucks, or buses not used commercially)
- Certain certificate or endorsement applicants, such as driving school instructors or specific equipment operators
- Drivers whom the DMV requests a medical evaluation for due to reported health concerns
Drivers typically submit a completed DL 546A every two years (or every three years for driving school instructors). The form must be dated within the required timeframe when applying or renewing.
Important: This form differs from the DL 546 Health Questionnaire, which is a self-reported form. The DL 546A requires a physician’s professional evaluation and detailed medical findings.
How to Download the Official DL 546A PDF (2024–2026 Update)?
The most current official version is available directly from the California DMV website:
Download the DL 546A PDF here:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2024/11/DL-546A-R5-2016-ASB-WWW.pdf
This link provides the latest upload (November 2024) of the REV. 5/2016 form, which remains the active version. Always download from the official DMV site to ensure you have the correct, up-to-date document.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the DL 546A Form
- Section 1 – Patient Information
The driver provides: full legal name, date of birth, driver license number, address, and daytime phone number. - Section 2 – Health Questions
The physician answers “Yes” or “No” to 14 specific questions about vision, hearing, diabetes, heart disease, respiratory conditions, neurological disorders, epilepsy, medication use, and alcoholism. Any “Yes” answer must be explained in the space provided or on a separate sheet. - Visual Acuity & Blood Pressure
The physician records uncorrected and corrected vision for both eyes (must meet minimum standards, typically 20/40 or better). Blood pressure is noted; readings consistently at or above 140/90 may require further evaluation. - Physician Certification
The doctor certifies whether the patient has any impairment that would prevent safe operation of specific vehicles (e.g., house cars over 40 feet or driving school instruction). The physician prints their name, provides license number, address, phone, date of last visit, exam date, and signs the form. - Driver Signature
The driver signs to consent to release of medical information and certifies accuracy under penalty of perjury.
Physician Instructions (quoted from the form): “Please complete the form and check ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to each question and explain any ‘Yes’ answer(s) in the space provided… Applicant must submit a completed health questionnaire every two years.”
Where and How to Submit the Completed DL 546A Form?
Submit the original or a copy of the completed DL 546A with your driver license application, renewal, or as directed by the DMV. Acceptable methods usually include:
- In-person at a DMV field office
- By mail (follow instructions on your DMV notice)
- Through the DMV’s online or virtual office portals when applicable
Keep a copy for your records. The DMV reviews the form to determine medical eligibility before issuing or renewing the license.
Frequently Asked Questions About the DL 546A Form
Is the DL 546A the same as the federal CDL medical form?
No. DL 546A is strictly for non-commercial Class A/B licenses. Commercial drivers use the federal MER (MCSA-5875) and MEC (MCSA-5876) forms.
Can any doctor complete the form?
Yes — any licensed California physician (M.D. or D.O.) may complete it.
What happens if the physician marks “Yes” on certain conditions?
The DMV may request additional information, impose restrictions, or require further testing. Some conditions (e.g., lapses of consciousness) could affect licensing status.
How long is the DL 546A valid?
It is typically valid for two years from the physician’s examination date (three years for driving school instructors).
Why the DL 546A Matters for Driver Safety?
The Physician’s Health Report helps the California DMV balance public safety with individual mobility by identifying medical issues that could affect driving ability — such as vision problems, seizures, or cardiovascular conditions — before issuing higher-class licenses. Using the official form and following instructions ensures your application processes smoothly.
Pro Tip: Always download the latest DL 546A PDF directly from the California DMV website and have your physician complete it during a recent visit to avoid delays.
For the most current requirements, visit the official California DMV Forms page or contact your local DMV office. Safe driving starts with accurate medical reporting!