DOT Physical Exams - Centertown, MO

Centertown, MO DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator. This examination establishes that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of maneuvering large vehicles safely on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts the exam. Success in this exam awards the driver a DOT medical certificate, necessary to keep a valid CDL license as per FMCSA guidelines. If another DOT agency regulates you and you're unsure which DOT physical you require, 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: Visual acuity below 20/40 per eye (corrected), inability to recognize traffic light colors, or hearing loss hindering perception of a whispered voice at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Conditions: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, uncontrolled angina, or defibrillator implant without medical clearance.
• Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic events or complications (such as neuropathy or poor eyesight) impacting safe driving ability.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Problems: Unaddressed obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime fatigue, or significant pulmonary disease impairing oxygen levels.
• Neurological Diseases: Epilepsy/seizure disorders (unless exempt), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss, balance issues, or involuntary movements.
• Substance Misuse: Current illicit drug usage, alcohol dependency, or prescription medication misuse that impairs driving.
• Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled psychiatric diseases (like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with recent incidents) or cognitive deterioration affecting judgment and response times.

Certain issues can cause temporary disqualification until medical clearance is provided (like managed blood pressure or diabetes). Others, such as untreated seizure disorders or defibrillator implants, are usually deemed permanently disqualifying per FMCSA standards.