DOT Physical Exams - Le Mars, IA

Locations, All Cities, All States

FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSA


Le Mars, IA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A comprehensive health exam mandated by the Department of Transportation is essential for every commercial motor vehicle operator. This assessment verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of handling large trucks or buses on highways. Conducted by a medical examiner certified and listed on the NRCME, passing this exam awards a DOT medical certificate. For DOT agency queries on required exams, contact 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?

Health History Review
Vision Test

Hearing Test
Urinalysis

Vital Signs
Physical Examination

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


What is checked in a DOT Physical?

  • Health history check and drug assessment
  • Vision test (corrective glasses allowed; minimum criteria apply)
  • Hearing test (forced whisper or audiometry)
  • Blood pressure and heart rate
  • Physical exam (overall health overview)
  • Urinalysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose)

In Le Mars, LA, upon successful completion of these procedures, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) might be valid for up to 24 months. Some conditions could require shorter certificates or specialist verifications

Who needs a DOT Physical?

A valid DOT medical card is mandatory if you:

  • Operate a commercial driver's license (CDL) class A, B, or C for interstate travel
  • Drive a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR across state lines
  • Transport over 8 paying passengers or more than 15 non-paying passengers
  • Carry hazardous materials needing placards under DOT guidelines
  • Work for DOT-regulated employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA or USCG necessitating DOT medical certifications. Le Mars, NM drivers must comply.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

  • Government-issued photo identification
  • Eyewear (glasses/contact lenses) & associated prescription
  • Detailed medication list & dosages
  • CPAP usage records (if it applies)
  • Specialist medical clearances (e.g., cardiology, sleep apnea, or diabetes)
  • Recent A1C or blood pressure records if they are being tracked

Le Mars, CT residents must prepare these for a thorough DOT physical examination.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

  • Denial of Medical card issuance
  • Imposition of short-term disqualification
  • Recommendations for primary care consultation
  • FMCSA can provide certain medical conditional exemptions
  • Your employer receives notice regarding status
  • It is essential to voice the medical challenges, seek remedies, and take the exam again, especially within Le Mars, OK.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

  • Vision & Hearing: Vision less than 20/40 (with aid), trouble identifying signal colors, or hearing deficiency for a whisper at 5 feet hinder driving.
  • Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: High blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiovascular events, or implanted devices may disqualify.
  • Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes with frequent hypo events or complications like neuropathy may affect driving ability.
  • Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated conditions causing drowsiness or severe lung impairments could disqualify.
  • Neurological Disorders: Seizure disorders or conditions causing unconsciousness affect eligibility unless exempted.
  • Substance Abuse: Current illegal substances, alcohol dependency, or misuse of meds compromise safe driving.
  • Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe mental illness or cognitive decline that affects decision-making may result in disqualification.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some medical issues may result in a temporary ban until cleared by a physician. Others, like untreated seizure disorders, usually lead to permanent disqualification as per FMCSA standards.

DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You

Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers

(800) 221-4291