What is the certification status of a person with paraplegia?

A person with paraplegia is considered to have a significant impairment that affects their ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely. The Department of Transportation (DOT) sets specific medical standards for commercial drivers, which generally require candidates to have full functional use of both lower limbs.

Since paraplegia results in paralysis that typically affects the lower extremities, it poses challenges in controlling a vehicle, particularly in situations that require immediate response and operation of the vehicle's pedals. Consequently, in accordance with these regulations, individuals with this condition are generally deemed disqualified from obtaining a commercial driver's license.

This understanding helps frame the medical evaluations and certifications required for those with different disabilities, clarifying that certain conditions, like paraplegia, are disqualifying due to their direct impact on driving capabilities.