From the Research
The Department of Transportation (DOT) allows individuals with bipolar disorder to obtain commercial driving certification if their condition is stable and well-controlled, as supported by the most recent evidence from 1. To qualify, drivers with bipolar disorder must undergo a medical evaluation by a DOT-certified medical examiner to assess their condition, medication regimen, and overall stability. The examiner will consider the following key factors:
- Stability on their medication regimen for at least 6 months without significant mood episodes
- Potential medication side effects that could impair driving, such as drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision
- Documentation from the treating mental health provider confirming stability, medication compliance, and absence of concerning symptoms Common medications for bipolar disorder include:
- Lithium
- Valproate
- Lamotrigine
- Certain atypical antipsychotics, such as quetiapine, aripiprazole, asenapine, lurasidone, and cariprazine, as mentioned in 1 Drivers may receive a limited certification period, typically ranging from 3 to 12 months, requiring more frequent monitoring. This regulation is in place because untreated or poorly controlled bipolar disorder can cause impaired judgment, concentration problems, and unpredictable behavior that could compromise road safety, highlighting the importance of careful evaluation and monitoring, as emphasized in 2. It is essential for drivers to report any significant changes in their condition or medication to their medical examiner to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.