NJ Form DR-15: Medical Exam for Bus Drivers Age 70+ – New Jersey Form DR-15, officially titled the New Jersey Medical Examination Form (also referred to as NJDR-15), is a state-mandated medical evaluation form for school bus drivers holding an “S” endorsement who are 70 years of age or older. It records the results of a physical examination to determine continuing physical fitness to operate a school bus under New Jersey law.
Who Must Complete the New Jersey Medical Evaluation Form?
The requirement applies specifically to commercial driver license (CDL) holders with a school bus (S) endorsement who are age 70 or older and operate school buses in New Jersey. This includes drivers transporting children to and from schools under N.J.S.A. 18A:39-1 et seq.
Drivers younger than 70 are not subject to this additional state form, although they must still maintain a valid federal Medical Examiner’s Certificate when required. The form must be completed by a licensed medical doctor (MD) or osteopathic physician (DO). A federally certified medical examiner may complete both the federal MEC and the New Jersey form if they hold an MD or DO license.
How Often Is the DR-15 Form Required?
Frequency depends on the driver’s age:
- Drivers ages 70 to 74: Must complete the examination annually and provide the evaluation page to their employer. Beginning in 2020, the annual deadline is no later than June 1.
- Drivers age 75 and older: Must complete the examination every six months and provide the evaluation page to their employer.
These requirements took effect December 17, 2018. The completed Medical Doctor or Osteopathic Physician Evaluation page (the final page of the form) is submitted only to the employer. The employer retains it in the driver’s employment file for review by the New Jersey MVC during biannual bus inspections. Do not submit the form or evaluation page to the MVC.
Official details are available on the NJ MVC School Bus Driver Requirements page.
Key Differences Between the Federal MEC and New Jersey Form DR-15
Many drivers confuse the two requirements. Here is a clear comparison:
- The federal Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) must be completed by a medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. CDL holders submit it according to federal and New Jersey rules (now largely electronic via the National Registry).
- The New Jersey Form DR-15 is an additional state requirement for school bus drivers age 70+. It must be completed by a licensed MD or DO and is kept on file with the employer only.
- Submitting a valid federal MEC does not satisfy the New Jersey requirement. Both are mandatory for qualifying drivers.
For more clarification, review the official FAQ document: New Jersey Medical Examination FAQs (PDF).
How to Complete and Submit Form DR-15?
Follow these steps to stay compliant:
- Download the current New Jersey Medical Examination Form (DR-15) from the official link: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/business/NJDR-15.pdf.
- Schedule an appointment with a licensed medical doctor or osteopathic physician. Bring any relevant medical history and current medications.
- The physician completes the full form, including health history review, vision, hearing, urinalysis, and physical examination sections, using standards aligned with 49 CFR 391.41 where applicable.
- The physician signs the final “Medical Doctor or Osteopathic Physician Evaluation” page, certifying whether the driver meets the standards (with or without corrective lenses or hearing aid).
- Provide only that signed evaluation page to your employer. The employer must maintain it for the duration of employment.
- Retain a personal copy for your records. The full form remains in the physician’s office.
Employers who fail to receive and maintain the required forms may face a $250 fine. Drivers who do not comply risk suspension of their privilege to operate a school bus.
What Happens If You Do Not Comply?
Non-compliance with the New Jersey medical evaluation requirement can result in suspension of the school bus (S) endorsement privilege. Employers are also subject to penalties under N.J.A.C. 13:20-30.17 for failing to maintain the evaluation forms. Regular compliance protects both driver employment and student safety.
For questions, contact the MVC Bus Application Unit at (609) 292-7500, extension 5039, or consult the official resources linked above.
Additional Resources and Official Sources
Always use the most current forms and guidance directly from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission:
- Official New Jersey Form DR-15 (PDF)
- NJ MVC School Bus Driver Requirements (Age 70+)
- Official FAQ: New Jersey Medical Examination for Bus Drivers Aged 70 or Older
- NJ MVC CDL Self-Certification and Medical Examiner Certificate Information
These sources reflect current New Jersey regulations as of the latest available MVC updates. Requirements can change, so verify information on the official nj.gov websites before taking action.
Conclusion
New Jersey Form DR-15 plays an important role in ensuring the continued physical fitness of school bus drivers age 70 and older. By completing the required medical evaluation on schedule—annually for ages 70–74 and every six months for age 75 and older—and providing the evaluation page solely to your employer, you maintain compliance with state law while continuing to serve New Jersey students safely.
Download the form today from the official source and schedule your examination with a licensed MD or DO well before any deadline. Staying informed through the New Jersey MVC website is the best way to protect your driving privileges and contribute to school transportation safety across the state.