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 - Indiana

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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Indiana DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a detailed health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This examination ensures drivers are capable of handling large vehicles on public roads safely. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry, conducts the evaluation. Successfully passing the exam results in gaining a DOT medical certificate, essential for maintaining a valid CDL as per FMCSA rules. For assistance with DOT agency requirements, call 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?

Health History Review
Vision Test

Hearing Test
Urinalysis

Vital Signs
Physical Examination

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What is checked in a DOT Physical?

Health history review and medication assessment in Indiana
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 completing successfully, the Medical Examiner's Certificate may be issued for up to 24 months. Some conditions require shorter certifications or specialist documentation.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

You need a valid DOT medical card if you:

Hold an Indiana CDL for interstate commerce (class A, B, or C)
Operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
Transport more than 8 passengers (for hire) or 15+ passengers (not for hire)
Carry hazardous materials necessitating DOT placarding
Work for DOT-regulated employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, USCG, where medical qualification is mandatory

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Government-issued photo ID from Indiana
Glasses/contacts with prescription
Medication list with dosages
Data on CPAP usage (if applicable)
Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep, diabetes)
Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if tracked: Ensure to have these items for your DOT physical exam in Indiana.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

No Medical card issued in Indiana
Temporary disqualification
Referral to primary care physician for treatment
FMCSA exemptions exist for some conditions
Notification of employer
Address medical issues and retake the exam in Indiana to remain compliant.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: If vision is worse than 20/40 per eye, color blind to signals, or cannot hear a whisper at 5 feet, it poses issues.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged high blood pressure, recent cardiac events, or implanted medical devices without a clearance can disqualify.
Diabetes: If uncontrolled with frequent hypoglycemia or complications, it can hinder driving ability.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated apnea causing daytime fatigue or severe lung conditions can be problematic.
Neurological Disorders: Conditions like epilepsy or frequent dizziness are generally disqualifying unless exempted.
Substance Abuse: Use of illegal drugs, dependence on alcohol, or misuse of prescription drugs affecting driving can disqualify.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe mental health conditions or cognitive issues impacting safety are concerns.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Issues may be temporary if controlled with documentation but certain conditions like untreated seizures or defibrillators are typically permanent under FMCSA standards.