DOT Physical Exams - Ceres, CA
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSACeres, CA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an in-depth health check mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial drivers. This assessment ensures that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of managing large vehicles on public roads. A certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the NRCME conducts the exam. Passing results in obtaining a DOT medical card, essential for maintaining a valid CDL license under FMCSA regulations. Call us at 800-221-4291 if another DOT agency regulates you and you need guidance on the required exam.
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?
- Health history review and medication assessment
- Vision screening (corrective lenses allowed; minimum standards apply)
- Hearing assessment (forced whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse rate
- Physical examination (systems review)
- Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, 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
For more details, explore local guidelines in Ceres, HI.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
Possession of a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Have a CDL class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. gross vehicle weight rating in interstate transit
- Transport 8+ paid passengers or 15+ unpaid passengers
- Convey hazardous materials requiring placarding by DOT
- Work for DOT-governed employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, needing medical qualification
This applies in Ceres, SD too.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Official photo ID
- Eyeglasses/contact lenses & prescription notes
- Medication list & respective dosages
- CPAP compliance data (if applicable)
- Specialist endorsements (heart, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure records if tracking
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card can be released
- Provisional disqualification
- Refer back to primary care for treatment
- FMCSA grants exceptions for specific illnesses
- Notice to employer
- Follow-up steps (resolve medical concerns and reattempt examination)
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision not meeting 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), failing to identify traffic colors, or hearing deficiently.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent cardiac events, or certain heart devices.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes causing dangerous conditions or nerve damage interfering with driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory: Untreated apnea causing sleepiness or serious lung conditions.
- Neurological: Epilepsy or conditions causing blackouts.
- Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use or unsafe prescription medication use.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive: Severe mental illness or cognitive issues affecting judgment.
Sometimes, such conditions may only result in temporary disqualification while waiting for medical documentation like blood pressure control.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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