DOT Physical Exams - Redwood Falls, MN
Locations, All Cities, All States
FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSARedwood Falls, MN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
The Department of Transportation mandates a thorough health check-up for all commercial motor vehicle operators. The DOT physical is a key assessment to confirm that these drivers are safely equipped, both physically and mentally, to handle large vehicles on busy streets. Conducted by a certified medical professional listed in the National Registry, passing this test enables the issuance of a DOT medical certificate, necessary for maintaining a CDL license under FMCSA norms. If other DOT agencies regulate you, call 800-221-4291 for guidance.
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?
- Review of health history and medications
- Vision test (glasses allowed; minimum standards required)
- Hearing check (forced whisper or audiometry used)
- Blood pressure and heart rate measurements
- Complete physical exam
- Urinalysis to check specific gravity, protein, glucose
If successful, receive a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid up to 24 months. Some cases may demand note or shorter duration. Redwood Falls, NE's rules apply.
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 in Redwood Falls, SC
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Eyeglasses/contact lenses and prescription details
- Comprehensive list of medications and dosages
- Data on CPAP machine usage if applicable
- Clearance from specialists in cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.
- Recent logs for A1C levels or blood pressure if monitored
Ensure you have all necessary documents when in Redwood Falls, UT to facilitate the DOT physical process.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- Medical card will not be issued
- Temporary disqualification
- Refer to primary care provider for treatment
- FMCSA exemptions potentially applicable
- Employer will be informed
- Next Steps (address health issues and redo examination) in Redwood Falls, AR
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Poor vision worse than 20/40 in each eye (with correction), inability to differentiate traffic signal colors, or hearing loss that restricts hearing a whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (>=180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or a defibrillator without approval.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications (neuropathy, eyesight issues) affecting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime fatigue, or severe lung disease inhibiting oxygen exchange.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders (unless exempted), conditions leading to sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current use of illegal substances, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescribed drugs impairing driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled mental illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent incidents) or cognitive difficulties affecting decision-making and reaction speed.
Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification
Certain problems may temporarily disqualify you until you provide medical clearance (e.g., controlled high blood pressure, diabetes management). Others, such as untreated seizures or implanted defibrillators, are often considered permanently disqualifying based on FMCSA rules.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers
