How long must a medical examiner retain a copy of the driver's medical records?

The retention period for a medical examiner to keep a copy of a driver's medical records is established by various regulatory standards, including guidelines issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The correct retention period is three years. This duration aligns with the requirement to ensure that records are available for review and compliance purposes, especially in the event of audits or any investigations related to the driver's medical status. Keeping records for this period helps maintain a comprehensive overview regarding the medical qualifications of drivers, supporting the safety regulations governing commercial drivers. Retaining records for three years ensures that both medical examiners and the regulatory authorities have access to pertinent information as needed to uphold safety standards in the transportation industry.