DOT Physical Exams - Georgetown, MA
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAGeorgetown, MA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
DOT physical exams are thorough medical checks mandated by the Department of Transportation for drivers of commercial vehicles. These exams are vital to confirm drivers have the physical, mental, and emotional ability to drive on public roads safely. A certified medical examiner (CME) on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conducts the test. A passing result earns a DOT Medical Certificate, required for holding a CDL under FMCSA rules. For inquiries about specific DOT exams, 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?
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)
In Georgetown, DE, 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.
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 Georgetown, HI.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-Issued Picture ID
- Glasses/Contacts & Prescription
- Complete Medication List & Dosages
- CPAP Data (if used)
- Specialist Clearances (Cardiology, Sleep Apnea, Diabetes)
- Recent A1C/Blood Pressure Logs (if monitored)
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No medical card will be granted
- Temporary disqualifications
- Referral to your primary clinician for treatment
- Possible FMCSA exceptions for specific health issues
- Alerting your employer
- Steps forward (resolve medical concerns and redo exam)
Be aware, in Georgetown, NC, it's crucial to address these concerns for a successful reassessment.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision poorer than 20/40 in each eye even with correction, inability to differentiate traffic light colors, or hearing deficiency preventing detection of a forced whisper from 5 feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction or stroke, uncontrolled angina, or having an unapproved defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes with recurrent hypoglycemia or issues like neuropathy that hinder safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing daytime drowsiness, or serious lung diseases affecting breathing.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy (unless certified), conditions causing fainting or tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Ongoing illegal drug use, alcohol dependence, or misuse of prescriptions affecting driving ability.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrollable mental illnesses or cognitive disorders impacting judgment and response time.
Conditions can temporarily disqualify until medical clearance (e.g., regulated blood pressure), whereas others, like untreated seizures, may be permanent disqualifications under FMCSA rules.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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