DOT Physical Exams - Putnam, AL
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAPutnam, AL DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an in-depth health check required by the Department of Transportation for all commercial vehicle operators. The purpose of this exam is to confirm that drivers are in good physical, mental, and emotional health to handle large vehicles safely on public thoroughfares. Certified medical examiners, registered on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conduct this examination. A successful exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, essential for holding a valid CDL license as per FMCSA standards. If your regulation falls under another DOT agency and you need guidance, call 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?
- Review of health history and medications
- Vision check (corrective lenses allowed; must meet minimum standards)
- Hearing evaluation (such as forced whisper test)
- Blood pressure and pulse measurement
- Physical exam (including systems review)
- Urinalysis (for specific gravity, proteins, glucose)
Upon successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be issued for up to 24 months. Some conditions may require shorter certification or specialist documentation.
Location: Putnam, OH
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A valid DOT medical certification (card) is essential if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Transport over 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Convey hazardous materials needing DOT placarding
- Are employed by companies governed by DOT bodies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG for which DOT medical qualification is mandatory in Putnam, CT
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo
- Glasses/contacts & prescription
- List of medications & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Ensure all necessary documents and equipment are with you when attending your exam in Putnam, SC.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be granted
- Temporary disqualification ensues
- Referral for additional care to your primary doctor
- FMCSA waivers might exist for some medical issues
- Notification to employer
- Consequent Steps (treat medical concerns and redo the evaluation)
If affected, ensure you address these concerns and seek insights on meeting requirements within Putnam, GA.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to differentiate traffic signal colors, or an inability to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an implanted defibrillator without approval.
- Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic episodes or complications that affect safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness, or severe respiratory disease affecting oxygenation.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders (without exemption), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current usage of illegal drugs, alcohol dependence, or misuse of prescription drugs that impair driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged mental illness or cognitive dysfunction affecting judgment and response time.
Issues might only temporarily disqualify you until clearance or documentation is provided (e.g., controlled blood pressure, managed diabetes). Others, like untreated seizure disorders or implanted defibrillators, are usually permanently disqualifying under FMCSA rules.
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