DOT Physical Exams - Atlantis, FL
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAAtlantis, FL DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a thorough health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This assessment ensures that drivers are in a condition suitable for handling large vehicles on public roadways. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate or DOT medical card), essential for keeping a valid CDL per FMCSA rules. For assistance with DOT physical requirements, contact 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?
- 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
This applies specifically to Atlantis, WI.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You are required to hold a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Own a commercial driver's license (CDL) class A, B, or C for inter-state business.
- Drive vehicles above 10,001 lbs. GVWR for inter-state business.
- Transport over eight passengers (if hired) or 15+ passengers (non-hire).
- Carry hazardous substances needing DOT compliance placarding.
- Work for employers under DOT bodies like FMCSA, FAA, or other where DOT medical clearance is essential in Atlantis, NC.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- State-issued photo ID
- Corrective lenses or contact lenses & current prescription
- List of current medications & their doses
- Data from CPAP machine if applicable
- Clearances from specialists (cardiology, sleep-related issues, diabetes, etc.)
- Latest A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored regularly
Remember to bring these documents if you're taking the exam in Atlantis, IL.
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 worse than 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), difficulty in recognizing traffic signal colors, or hearing deficiency affecting a forced whisper at a 5-foot distance.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg) not under control, recent heart attack or stroke, uncontrolled angina, or a defibrillator implant lacking approval.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with recurrent low blood sugar or complications disrupting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Concerns: Untreated sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness, or serious lung disease affecting oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Seizure disorders (exceptions allowed), conditions leading to loss of consciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Present illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of medications affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric disorders not under control (e.g., schizophrenia, recent bipolar episodes) or cognitive decline influencing decision-making and response times.
Some conditions may cause temporary disqualification till medical approval or documentation is provided (e.g., managed blood pressure, diabetes handled well). Others, like untreated seizure disorders or unapproved implanted defibrillators, are typically considered permanently disqualifying under FMCSA standards.
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