Is 'determination pending' allowed on both state and federal forms?

The statement that 'determination pending' is only acceptable on federal forms is correct because federal regulations provide specific guidelines that govern the documentation of medical fitness for commercial drivers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) stipulates that any medical examination results must clearly indicate the driver's qualification status, which cannot be ambiguous or incomplete.

Under federal standards, a medical examiner must provide a definitive decision regarding whether a driver meets physical qualifications. The use of 'determination pending' does not align with these regulations, as it leaves the driver’s status unresolved and fails to provide necessary medical clarity. On the other hand, some states may allow terms like 'determination pending' on their forms for specific circumstances, but this does not apply to federal forms, thus emphasizing the importance of having a clear qualification status on federal documentation. This distinction also ensures that all drivers are held to the same rigorous standards of safety and health, as required by federal law.