Downgraded Oklahoma CDL Drivers Given Temporary Extension

The Department of Public Safety announced Tuesday afternoon it will grant a temporary extension for commercial driver's license holders recently downgraded for failing to submit an updated medical certificate or complete a self-certification form.

The department says the temporary extension will allow applicants to have the downgrade of their CDL removed, giving them until December 31, 2014 to complete all required examinations, according to a news release.

3/18/2014: Related Story: New Law May Have Many Oklahoma Truck Drivers Driving Illegally

In the news release, DPS Commissioner Michael Thompson stated that he "deeply appreciated the efforts by the personnel assigned to the CDL Division who identified an alternative to allow affected CDL drivers more time to comply with the federal requirement."

Governor Mary Fallin was also grateful, "I appreciate the efforts of Commissioner Thompson and his department to accommodate their [Downgraded CDL drivers] needs and grant an extension while they work to submit their required paperwork."

Any driver affected can call the DPS Driver License Help Desk at 405-425-2020.