Can high blood pressure make you fail a DOT physical?

Yes. Drivers with blood pressure at or above 180/110 mmHg will fail the DOT physical. Lower levels of hypertension may result in shorter certification periods if under treatment.

Does diabetes disqualify you from a DOT physical?

Not always. Controlled diabetes with proper documentation may be allowed. Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications can cause disqualification until managed.

Will sleep apnea cause you to fail a DOT physical?

Untreated or uncontrolled sleep apnea that causes daytime drowsiness can disqualify a driver. However, drivers who are compliant with CPAP or other treatments may qualify with documentation.

DOT Physical Exams - Arizona

Q: What will fail a DOT physical?

A driver may fail a DOT physical if they have uncontrolled high blood pressure (â‰¥180/110 mmHg), serious vision or hearing deficiencies, uncontrolled diabetes with hypoglycemia, untreated sleep apnea, seizure disorders, substance abuse, or severe psychiatric/cognitive conditions. Some issues may result in temporary disqualification until proper treatment or documentation is provided.

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Arizona DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A thorough medical evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators is known as a DOT physical. This examination verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of safely handling large transports on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing ensures receipt of a DOT medical certificate, essential for a valid CDL under FMCSA guidelines. For assistance with DOT agency-specific requirements, 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 health history and evaluate medications
Vision check (corrective eyewear permitted, standards in place)
Hearing test (forced whisper or audiometric)
Measure blood pressure and pulse
Conduct full physical (systems overview)
Urinalysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose)

Completion may grant a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid for up to 24 months, although some conditions may demand shorter certification or specialist documentation in Arizona

Who needs a DOT Physical?

You need a valid DOT medical card if:

Holding a commercial driver's license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for operating across states
Driving vehicles over 10,001 lbs. GVWR interstate
Transporting over 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 (not for hire)
Handling hazardous materials requiring placards as per DOT standards
Employed by DOT-regulated entities (FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, USCG) where medical clearance is necessary in Arizona

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 Arizona.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

No issuance of a Medical card
Temporary ineligibility
Advice to seek treatment from a primary physician
Possible FMCSA medical exemptions
Notification to employer
Further steps require medical resolution and exam retake

This applies within Arizona.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: If vision is worse than 20/40 per eye (corrected) or unable to discern traffic lights; hearing cannot detect a forced whisper at 5 feet.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (â‰¥180/110 mmHg), a recent heart episode or stroke, uncontrolled angina, or having an unsanctioned defibrillator.
Diabetes: Unregulated diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy or vision issues that hinder safe driving.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing drowsiness or severe lung disease impairing oxygen levels.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders (without exemptions), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss or uncontrolled tremors.
Substance Abuse: Current use of illegal substances, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescription drugs that hinder driving abilities.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar with recent episodes) or cognitive issues affecting reaction time and judgment.

Under FMCSA rules, some issues may result in temporary disqualification while addressing them with medical documentation (e.g., controlled hypertension). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are considered generally permanently disqualifying.