RAPID CITY, S.D. (June 3, 2026) — With a July 1, 2026 deadline approaching for South Dakota’s updated commercial driver’s license requirements, Monument Health Occupational Medicine is offering DOT physical examinations with same-week appointment availability to help drivers across the Black Hills region stay on the road and in compliance.
For approximately 20 years, South Dakota allowed intrastate CDL holders, drivers who operate commercially within the state only, to operate without a medical certificate. That exemption is ending. Following the passage of Senate Bill 10, an estimated 28,000 South Dakota CDL holders will now be required to obtain a valid DOT medical examiner’s certificate. Drivers who do not complete a qualifying physical and update their certification status before July 1 risk having their CDL downgraded.
The change primarily affects drivers with a “K” restriction on their CDL. These drivers must complete a DOT physical with a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry, have their certificate submitted electronically to South Dakota Driver Licensing, and then visit a driver exam station before July 1 to receive an updated license. A DOT physical generally includes a medical history review, vision and hearing screening, blood pressure evaluation and a physical exam to assess overall fitness for commercial driving.
Drivers needing to complete a DOT physical can visit Monument Health Occupational Medicine in Rapid City, who are currently offering same-week appointments or walk into any of our Monument Health Urgent Cares to complete their exam. As the July 1 deadline draws closer, drivers are encouraged to schedule this exam as soon as you can to allow time for electronic processing and license updates.
About Monument Health
Monument Health is a community-based health system headquartered in Rapid City, South Dakota. With five hospitals, more than 40 clinics and specialty centers, and more than 6,300 physicians and caregivers across 31 specialties, Monument Health serves 14 communities across western South Dakota and eastern Wyoming. Monument Health is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.