DOT Physical Exams - Sidney, NE
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSASidney, NE DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a detailed health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This examination ensures drivers are capable of handling large vehicles on public roads safely. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry, conducts the evaluation. Successfully passing the exam results in gaining a DOT medical certificate, essential for maintaining a valid CDL as per FMCSA rules. For assistance with DOT agency requirements, call 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?
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 (corrective glasses allowed; basic standards enforced)
- Hearing check (use of forced whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and heart rate assessment
- Complete physical examination (systematic review)
- Urinalysis (check for specific gravity, protein, and sugar levels)
Upon passing, you may obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid for up to 24 months. Some conditions might necessitate shorter certifications or additional specialized approvals. Sidney, AK
Who needs a DOT Physical?
In Sidney, CO, a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Transport over 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials requiring placarding under DOT rules
- Are employed by entities under DOT agencies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG needing DOT medical qualification
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
In Sidney, DE, all the above documents are crucial for a smooth DOT physical exam process.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- Without a medical card
- Face temporary barring
- Doctor-referred treatment needed
- FMCSA exceptions for specific conditions
- Notifying your employer
- Next steps: fix health issues and retake exam
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Worse than 20/40 vision per eye (with correction), inability to discern traffic colors, or inability to hear a whisper at five feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled hypertension (≥180/110), recent heart issues like attacks or strokes, or defibrillators needing clearance.
- Diabetes: Issues with uncontrolled diabetes, such as frequent hypoglycemia or vision-affecting neuropathy.
- Respiratory & Sleep: Untreated sleep apnea or significant lung disease causing day fatigue or low oxygen.
- Neuro Disorders: Epilepsy/seizures (unless exempt), conditions with blackout risks or tremors.
- Substance Issues: Illegal drug use, alcohol misuse, or problematic prescription medication usage.
- Mental & Cognitive: Severe psychiatric conditions with recent episodes or impairments affecting decision-making.
Some cases can temporarily disqualify until medical documentation is provided (e.g., controlled blood pressure). Others, like untreated epilepsy or implanted defibrillators, are permanent disqualifications under FMCSA rules.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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