Can high blood pressure make you fail a DOT physical?

Yes. Drivers with blood pressure at or above 180/110 mmHg will fail the DOT physical. Lower levels of hypertension may result in shorter certification periods if under treatment.

Does diabetes disqualify you from a DOT physical?

Not always. Controlled diabetes with proper documentation may be allowed. Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications can cause disqualification until managed.

Will sleep apnea cause you to fail a DOT physical?

Untreated or uncontrolled sleep apnea that causes daytime drowsiness can disqualify a driver. However, drivers who are compliant with CPAP or other treatments may qualify with documentation.

DOT Physical Exams - Minnesota

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(800) 221-4291

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Minnesota DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a thorough health check mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle driver. This examination ensures that drivers possess the necessary physical, mental, and emotional health to operate large vehicles safely on public roadways. A certified medical examiner listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners conducts the DOT physical. Successful completion grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, essential for maintaining a valid CDL license as per FMCSA rules. For guidance on the required DOT physical, particularly if regulated by another DOT agency, contact 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?

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 Minnesota, 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 possess a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:

Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)-class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
Operate a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
Transport over 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (not for hire)
Carry hazardous materials needing placarding per DOT rules
Work for DOT-agency-regulated employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA or USCG requiring DOT medical qualification

Ensure compliance with Minnesota regulations.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Government-issued photo ID
Glasses/contacts & prescription
List of medications & dosages
CPAP usage data (if applicable)
Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored

Remember to bring these documents for your Minnesota examination to ensure smooth processing.

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)

Address these requirements in Minnesota to maintain eligibility and address disqualifications effectively.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to see traffic signal colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (â‰¥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or presence of an implanted defibrillator lacking approval.
Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels with episodes of hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy that hinder safe driving.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness, or severe lung issues compromising oxygen levels.
Neurological Disorders: Epileptic conditions or other ailments causing unexpected collapses, dizziness, or uncontrollable tremors.
Substance Abuse: Current illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of medication affecting driving.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia), or cognitive problems affecting decision-making and reaction speed.

Disqualifications can be temporary until medical clearance is obtained (e.g., regulated blood pressure), while conditions like untreated epilepsy may lead to permanent disqualification per FMCSA standards.