DOT Physical Exams - Solomons, MD
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSASolomons, MD DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a thorough medical checkup mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This examination verifies that professional drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of safely operating large vehicles on public roads. 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, also known as a DOT medical card), essential to maintain a valid CDL license under FMCSA guidelines. For assistance in determining which DOT physical applies to you, especially if regulated by a different DOT agency, 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?
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 and medication review
- Vision screening with corrective lenses allowed; standards must be met
- Hearing test via whisper or audiometry
- Blood pressure and pulse rate check
- Physical examination covering various systems
- Urinalysis for specific readings like gravity, protein, glucose
After successful evaluation in Solomons, OR, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) is issued, valid for up to 24 months, though certain health conditions might require more frequent renewals or specialist documentation.
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 Solomons, HI.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Valid government photo ID
- Eyewear or prescription contacts
- Current medication list with dosages
- CPAP use file if relevant
- Expert confirmations (heart, sleep, diabetes, etc.)
- Up-to-date A1C/blood pressure logs if being tracked
Important for the state of Solomons, NH.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card issuance
- Temporary disqualification indicated
- Referral to primary healthcare for treatment
- Eligibility for FMCSA condition-specific exemptions
- Employer must be notified
- Follow-up actions: Resolve health concerns and reattempt the exam
These protocols apply in Solomons, OR too.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Suffering from vision loose with correction worse than 20/40 in each eye, inability to identify traffic light colors, or hearing loss preventing the detection of a whispered voice from 5 feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent cardiac arrest, stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or a heart implantable defibrillator lacking clearance.
- Diabetes: Non-managed diabetes known for large low-blood-sugar episodes or issues like vision problems that hinder driving safely.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated apnea causing daytime drowsiness, or serious lung disorder affecting oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epileptic disorders, conditions causing sudden blackout, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking, barring exemptions.
- Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or improper prescription medicine use negatively impacting driving skills.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged mental disorders or cognitive dysfunction impairing quick thinking/reaction time.
Some medical issues can temporarily disqualify you until medical proof or documentation is given, like controlled blood pressure or managed diabetes. Some conditions are usually deemed permanently disqualifying under FMCSA rules, like untreated seizure issues or heart defibrillators.
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