DOT Physical Exams - Jackson, AL
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAJackson, AL DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an extensive health evaluation stipulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial vehicle drivers. This examination verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit for safely navigating large vehicles on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, successfully completing the exam earns a DOT medical card, vital for maintaining a valid CDL under FMCSA rules. For guidance on DOT agency-specific physicals, dial us at 800-221-4291.
During your exam, the medical examiner will complete a thorough health assessment to determine if you meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical standards. The process typically includes:
What Does a DOT Physical Include?
Vision Test
Urinalysis
Physical Examination
DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available
What is checked in a DOT Physical?
- Medical history and drug review
- Vision test (corrective lenses permissible; must meet basic criteria)
- Hearing test (whisper test or audiometry)
- Monitoring of blood pressure & pulse
- Comprehensive physical assessment
- Urine test (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
After clearing the exam, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be granted for up to two years. Specific health issues might warrant shorter certification terms or additional specialist documentation required in Jackson, NY.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
In Jackson, WA, possessing a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for cross-state trade
- Drive vehicles over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in cross-state trade
- Carry more than 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials needing DOT-regulated placarding
- Work under DOT agency regulations like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG requiring DOT medical credentials
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government ID photo
- Eyewear & prescriptions
- Current medication details
- CPAP usage data (if needed)
- Doctor approvals (for heart, apnea, diabetes)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if watched
Be prepared in Jackson, TX for your appointment.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- Medical card will not be issued
- Temporary disqualification
- Refer to primary care provider for treatment
- FMCSA exemptions potentially applicable
- Employer will be informed
- Next Steps (address health issues and redo examination) in Jackson, AR
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to see traffic signal colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or presence of an implanted defibrillator lacking approval.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels with episodes of hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy that hinder safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness, or severe lung issues compromising oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epileptic conditions or other ailments causing unexpected collapses, dizziness, or uncontrollable tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of medication affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia), or cognitive problems affecting decision-making and reaction speed.
Disqualifications can be temporary until medical clearance is obtained (e.g., regulated blood pressure), while conditions like untreated epilepsy may lead to permanent disqualification per FMCSA standards.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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