DOT Physical Exams - Freedom, CA

Freedom, CA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

DOT physical exams are thorough check-ups required by the Department of Transportation for commercial vehicle drivers. These evaluations confirm drivers' physical, mental, and emotional capacity to safely handle hefty vehicles on public highways. Conducted by a Certified Medical Examiner from the National Registry, passing grants a DOT medical certificate, necessary for a valid CDL per FMCSA rules. For guidance on 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?

DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

• Vision & Hearing: Vision below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to recognize traffic colors, or hearing loss that makes it hard to discern a whispered sound at five feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart events, unregulated angina, or a non-cleared implanted defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Unregulated diabetes causing frequent low sugar levels or complications (e.g., neuropathy) impacting safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Unmanaged sleep apnea causing drowsiness, or severe respiratory diseases hindering proper oxygenation.
• Neurological Disorders: Epileptic conditions (unless exempted) or illnesses causing loss of consciousness, dizziness, or intense tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Current use of illicit drugs, habitual alcohol misuse, or prescription medication misuse impairing one's driving capabilities.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Significant unmanaged psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia) or cognitive dysfunction affecting decision-making or reaction speeds.

Some circumstances may temporarily disqualify you until you show the required medical documentation (e.g., managed diabetes). Issues like untreated seizure disorders or non-cleared defibrillators are typically seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA norms.