DOT Physical Exams - Fulton, KY

Locations, All Cities, All States

FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSA


Fulton, KY DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical examination, mandated by the Department of Transportation, is essential for all commercial motor vehicle drivers. This thorough checkup confirms that drivers are capable of operating large vehicles safely on public roads, both physically and mentally. Conducted by certified medical professionals listed in the National Registry, successfully passing this exam grants drivers the DOT medical certificate. This certificate is necessary for keeping a valid CDL license according to FMCSA standards. If you're governed by a different DOT authority and need guidance on which DOT physical applies to you, dial 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?

  • Review of health history and medications
  • Vision check (corrective lenses allowed; must meet minimum standards)
  • Hearing evaluation (such as forced whisper test)
  • Blood pressure and pulse measurement
  • Physical exam (including systems review)
  • Urinalysis (for specific gravity, proteins, 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.

Location: Fulton, OH

Who needs a DOT Physical?

You must have a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:

  • Have a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A,B, or C for interstate commerce
  • Drive a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
  • Transport more than 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (not for hire)
  • Transport hazardous materials that require placarding under DOT regulations
  • Work for employers regulated by DOT agencies such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA or USCG where DOT medical qualification is required

Additional conditions may apply for drivers operating between or within states, including within Fulton, HI.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

  • Government-issued ID
  • Eyewear and its prescription
  • Medication list with doses
  • CPAP machine data, if used
  • Specialist approvals (cardiac issues, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
  • Recent A1C/blood pressure logs, if monitored

Ensure these items are prepared before your Fulton, MD DOT examination to prevent potential delays or issues in the process.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

  • No Medical card will be issued
  • Temporary disqualification
  • Referral for treatment to your primary care doctor
  • FMCSA exemptions for certain medical conditions
  • Employer Notification
  • Next Steps (address the medical issues and retake the exam)

Further clarification may be needed for state-specific regulations, especially in regions like Fulton, HI.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

  • Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity below 20/40 in either eye (even with correction), difficulty identifying traffic signal colors, or hearing issues preventing a forced whisper test at 5 feet may affect eligibility.
  • Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension exceeding 180/110 mmHg, recent cardiac events, or implantation of a defibrillator without appropriate medical clearance may be disqualifying.
  • Diabetes: Poorly controlled blood sugar contributing to hypoglycemic episodes or other complications that impair safe driving is concerning.
  • Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Problems: Untreated sleep apnea or significant lung disease leading to daytime fatigue or oxygen deficiency can impede eligibility.
  • Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy (absent waivers), conditions causing sudden unconsciousness, or uncontrollable tremors constitute risks.
  • Substance Misuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or prescription drug misuse affecting driving capabilities is disqualifying.
  • Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric conditions like untreated schizophrenia or significant cognitive decline affecting judgment may prevent certification.

With FMCSA, issues like certain seizure conditions or defibrillator use could permanently disqualify you unless addressed. Temporary disqualifications occur upon presenting specific medical documentation.

DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You

Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers

(800) 221-4291