DOT Physical Exams - Hereford, AZ
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAHereford, AZ DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation for commercial motor vehicle operators. This assessment guarantees drivers are fit on physical, mental, and emotional levels to safely handle large vehicles on public roadways. A certified medical examiner from the National Registry performs the exam. Successful completion awards a DOT medical certificate, necessary for a valid CDL per FMCSA rules. Questions? 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 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 Hereford, AZ
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You must hold a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Have a commercial driver's license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Drive a vehicle weighing over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Transport over 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Move hazardous materials needing placarding as per DOT regulations
- Work for DOT-regulated employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG needing DOT medical qualification in Hereford, AR
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- 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
Remember to bring these documents for your Hereford, MN examination to ensure smooth processing.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No medical card will be granted
- Temporary disqualifications
- Referral to your primary clinician for treatment
- Possible FMCSA exceptions for specific health issues
- Alerting your employer
- Steps forward (resolve medical concerns and redo exam)
Be aware, in Hereford, NC, it's crucial to address these concerns for a successful reassessment.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision poorer than 20/40 in either eye with corrective lenses or inability to discern traffic signal colors; hearing loss preventing the perception of a forced whisper at five feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unchecked hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart incidents, stroke, ongoing angina, or lack of clearance for an implanted defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes causing frequent low blood sugar episodes or complications like neuropathy or impaired vision that hinder driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime fatigue, or severe lung condition affecting oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Seizure disorders unless exempted, any condition leading to sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking.
- Substance Abuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescriptions that affect driving capability.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe, unmanaged psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with recent incidents, or cognitive issues impairing judgment and response time.
Some conditions might temporarily disqualify you until medical clearance is provided, such as controlled hypertension or diabetes management. In contrast, disorders like seizures or implanted defibrillators are often deemed permanently disqualifying under FMCSA protocols.
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