If you just went in for a tune-up (elective stent) and didn’t have a heart attack, you could be back in one week

• The 1-Week Rule: You can return as soon as 1 week post-procedure if the cut in your leg/arm (access site) is healed and your cardiologist says you’re good.
• The Clearance Letter: Same deal—cardiologist needs to sign off that you’re tolerating meds and have no angina (chest pain).
• The Stress Test (The Kicker): Here is where guys get tripped up.
  • You might not need the stress test day one to get back in the truck if it was just a stent. BUT…
  • The FMCSA requires you to get an Exercise Tolerance Test (ETT) 3 to 6 months after the procedure.
  • So, if you get back on the road in week 2, make sure you schedule that stress test before month 6 rolls around, or your medical card turns into a pumpkin.
• The Recert: you are on a 1-year lease now. Annual physicals, and a stress test every 2 years (if your cardiologist requires it).

Pro Tip: Don’t walk into the certified medical examiners office empty-handed. Bring the actual test results (the EKG printout, the Echo report) and the doctor’s letter.

If you need a specific medical clearance letter for stents to give to your doctor, reach out to our office.

Stay tuned to part 2, CDL rules for a stent after a heart attack.