Section, AL DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator. This examination establishes that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of maneuvering large vehicles safely on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts the exam. Success in this exam awards the driver a DOT medical certificate, necessary to keep a valid CDL license as per FMCSA guidelines. If another DOT agency regulates you and you're unsure which DOT physical you require, 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?
Health History Review
Vision Test
Hearing Test
Urinalysis
Vital Signs
Physical Examination
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What is checked in a DOT Physical?
- Review of health history and medications
- Vision test (corrective glasses allowed; basic standards enforced)
- Hearing check (use of forced whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and heart rate assessment
- Complete physical examination (systematic review)
- Urinalysis (check for specific gravity, protein, and sugar levels)
Upon passing, you may obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid for up to 24 months. Some conditions might necessitate shorter certifications or additional specialized approvals. Section, AK
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A valid DOT medical card is necessary if you:
- Hold a CDL-class A, B, or C for interstate trade
- Operate vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR across state lines
- Carry more than 8 passengers for pay or over 15 passengers unpaid
- Transport hazardous goods needing DOT permits
- Are employed by entities overseen by DOT divisions like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG requiring DOT medical eligibility.
Section, AK
DOT Physical Near Section, AL
Rogersville, AL
Littleville, AL
Saint Florian, AL
Sheffield, AL
Florence, AL
Tuscumbia, AL
Woodland, AL
Killen, AL
Tri-Cities, AL
Muscle Shoals, AL
Hatton, AL
Lakeview, AL
Courtland, AL
North Courtland, AL
Leighton, AL
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Official photo ID issued by the government
- Corrective eyewear and prescription
- List indicating medications and dosages
- CPAP usage data (if relevant)
- Clearances from specialists (for heart issues, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Latest A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Ensure these are with you for the process in Section, AZ.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical certification will be provided
- Possible temporary disqualification
- Recommendation for treatment by your primary care physician
- FMCSA exemptions applicable for specific medical conditions
- Employer will be informed
- Subsequent steps involve addressing the medical conditions and retaking the examination in Section, CT
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity worse than 20/40 in either eye (even with glasses), difficulty identifying traffic lights, or inability to hear a whispered voice within 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Severe hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, unstable angina, or an unapproved defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Frequent hypoglycemic events or complications like neuropathy impacting driving safety from uncontrolled diabetes.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea resulting in daytime sleepiness or severe lung conditions affecting breathing.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizures (unless exempt), conditions causing sudden blackouts or involuntary tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current illegal drug use, alcohol abuse, or misuse of prescription drugs affecting motor skills.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe mental health issues (e.g., uncontrolled schizophrenia) or cognitive deficits harming decision-making skills.
Some conditions may temporarily prevent certification until resolved with documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure). Other issues, like unmanaged seizures, usually lead to permanent ineligibility under FMCSA norms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A DOT physical typically includes a review of the driver’s health history and medications, vision screening, hearing assessment, vital signs (blood pressure, pulse), urinalysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose), and a full physical examination by a certified medical examiner. Upon passing, a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card) may be issued for up to 24 months.
You must have a valid DOT medical certificate if you: hold 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 more than eight passengers (for hire) or over fifteen passengers (not for hire); or transport hazardous materials requiring placarding under DOT regulations.
DOT physicals are offered at test centres in all cities and all states, through Accredited Drug Testing’s nationwide network. You can schedule by calling 1-800-221-4291.
You should bring a government-issued photo ID; glasses or contact lenses and the prescription; a list of medications and dosages; CPAP usage data if applicable; and any specialist clearance letters or physician documentation (for conditions like heart disease, sleep apnea, diabetes) to your DOT physical.
If you fail the DOT physical, you will not receive the medical card; you may be temporarily or permanently disqualified depending on the condition; you will need to address any medical issues (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension, untreated sleep apnea, recent myocardial infarction) and then be re-examined.
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