National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) DOT Practice Exam

A bipolar driver has been stable for 5 years and is treated with lithium. What is the best certification period?

1. Disqualify due to lithium treatment.

2. 3 months.

3. 1 year.

4. 2 years.

The correct answer is: 1 year.

The appropriate certification period for a bipolar driver who has been stable for 5 years while being treated with lithium is 1 year. This is based on guidelines that consider the stability of the individual’s condition, the effectiveness of their treatment, and the absence of disqualifying symptoms. In the case of stable bipolar disorder treated with lithium, the medical standards generally allow for certification provided the driver can demonstrate that their condition is well-managed and they have been free of exacerbations, such as manic or depressive episodes, for an extended period. Because the driver has shown stability for 5 years, this indicates that they are likely managing their condition effectively. A disqualification solely due to lithium treatment is not warranted in this scenario, given the successful long-term management of the driver's condition. Additionally, shorter certification periods such as 3 months would generally be reserved for situations where there is less certainty about the driver's stability or potential for episodes to recur. Thus, considering the stable condition and compliance with treatment, a certification period of 1 year is appropriate.