DOT Physical Exams - Spring Arbor, MI

Spring Arbor, MI DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an all-encompassing medical check mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver. This assessment is crucial to verify that professional drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared to operate large vehicles safely on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (also known as a DOT medical card), required to keep a valid CDL license in accordance with FMCSA regulations. If another DOT agency regulates you and you need help finding out which DOT physical you require, please 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?

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: Unable to see better than 20/40 in each eye with correction, trouble identifying traffic signal colors, or hearing loss affecting ability to hear whispers at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an unapproved defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with frequent low sugar incidents or complications like neuropathy or vision issues impacting driving safety.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness or severe lung disease hindering oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders unless exempt, sudden loss of consciousness, dizziness, or involuntary tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Use of illegal substances, reliance on alcohol, or misuse of medications impacting driving.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric problems or cognitive decline affecting decision making or reaction times.

Some issues might only temporarily disqualify you if you fail to provide medical approval or records (like regulated blood pressure, diabetes care). Others, such as untreated seizures or implanted defibrillators, are usually seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA standards.