DOT Physical Exams - Canton, MI

Canton, MI DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

DOT physicals are detailed medical check-ups mandated by the Department of Transportation for all commercial vehicle operators. These exams confirm that drivers are duly equipped physically, mentally, and emotionally to manage large vehicles on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts the exam. A successful assessment provides drivers with the DOT medical certificate, essential for keeping a CDL under FMCSA rules. If you need help figuring out the needed DOT physical or fall under another DOT authority, reach out to 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?

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

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

• Vision & Hearing: Vision below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to recognize traffic colors, or hearing loss that makes it hard to discern a whispered sound at five feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart events, unregulated angina, or a non-cleared implanted defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Unregulated diabetes causing frequent low sugar levels or complications (e.g., neuropathy) impacting safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Unmanaged sleep apnea causing drowsiness, or severe respiratory diseases hindering proper oxygenation.
• Neurological Disorders: Epileptic conditions (unless exempted) or illnesses causing loss of consciousness, dizziness, or intense tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Current use of illicit drugs, habitual alcohol misuse, or prescription medication misuse impairing one's driving capabilities.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Significant unmanaged psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia) or cognitive dysfunction affecting decision-making or reaction speeds.

Some circumstances may temporarily disqualify you until you show the required medical documentation (e.g., managed diabetes). Issues like untreated seizure disorders or non-cleared defibrillators are typically seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA norms.