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 - California

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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California DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

The Department of Transportation mandates a thorough medical assessment for all commercial vehicle drivers. This examination verifies that drivers are capable of handling large vehicles safely, both physically and mentally, on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner found on the National Registry, passing this exam grants a DOT medical certificate, required for a valid CDL under FMCSA rules. Call us at 800-221-4291 for assistance determining the necessary DOT physical for your agency.

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?

Overview of medical history and assessment of current medications in California
Visual examination (permission to use corrective lenses; minimum requirements enforced)
Auditory check (via whisper test or audiometric evaluation)
Measurement of blood pressure and heart rate
Physical assessment (full systems review)
Urine test (specific gravity, protein, sugar levels)

Completion confers a Medical Examiner's Certificate in California up to 24 months; certain conditions might necessitate shorter term validity or specialist approval.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

For California, possession of a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is essential if:

Holding a commercial driver's license (CDL) class A, B, or C for interstate trade
Operating vehicles above 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate trade
Carrying over 8 paying passengers or more than 15 non-paying passengers
Moving hazardous materials needing placarding by DOT rules
Employed under DOT agencies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where DOT medical qualification is necessary.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Valid government-issued photo ID
Contact lenses/glasses and prescription
Current list of medications and dosages
CPAP machine usage records (if relevant)
Specialist endorsements (e.g., cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes)
Recent A1C or blood pressure logs if tracked

Ensure to bring these items to your medical examination appointment in California to facilitate a smooth evaluation process.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

Failure to receive a Medical certificate
Temporary disqualification issued
Recommendation to seek medical treatment with your primary care provider
Eligible FMCSA waivers for certain medical conditions
Notification provided to employer about disqualification
Following procedure for addressing medical issues and re-scheduling the examination for reevaluation.

In California, adhere to these steps should disqualification be the outcome.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity below 20/40 in either eye (even with correction), difficulty identifying traffic signal colors, or hearing issues preventing a forced whisper test at 5 feet may affect eligibility.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension exceeding 180/110 mmHg, recent cardiac events, or implantation of a defibrillator without appropriate medical clearance may be disqualifying.
Diabetes: Poorly controlled blood sugar contributing to hypoglycemic episodes or other complications that impair safe driving is concerning.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Problems: Untreated sleep apnea or significant lung disease leading to daytime fatigue or oxygen deficiency can impede eligibility.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy (absent waivers), conditions causing sudden unconsciousness, or uncontrollable tremors constitute risks.
Substance Misuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or prescription drug misuse affecting driving capabilities is disqualifying.
Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric conditions like untreated schizophrenia or significant cognitive decline affecting judgment may prevent certification.

With FMCSA, issues like certain seizure conditions or defibrillator use could permanently disqualify you unless addressed. Temporary disqualifications occur upon presenting specific medical documentation.