The Honourable Mike Currie, Minister of Transportation and Public Works today announced that a reciprocity agreement on certain medical requirements for operators of commercial motor vehicles has been signed between Canada and the United States.
The Agreement, signed December 30, 1998, by Transport Canada and the U.S. Federal Highway Administration, is an ongoing effort to ensure uniformity of rules and practices as they apply to interprovincial movement of goods. It becomes effective March 31, 1999.
"Both countries reviewed their medical provisions as they relate to operators of commercial vehicles and found they were equivalent," said Minister Currie. " With harmonized medical requirements now in place, in essence, Canadian operators of commercial motor vehicles will no longer be required to carry a U.S. medical card certifying their medical fitness to operate in the United States."
In Prince Edward Island there are over 18,000 drivers holding a commercial drivers license. Uniform medical standards ensure that safeguards are in place for the safety and protection of the general public, not only here on the Island but all across Canada and North America.
Both countries have agreed to adopt an identifier code by December 30, 2001. This code will be displayed on the license to identify the qualification status of a commercial driver to operate a commercial vehicle in the other country.
"The new Agreement and the respective medical standards of both countries will serve the public well in ensuring the safe operation of commercial vehicles," said Minister Currie.