DOT Physical Exams - Englewood Cliffs, NJ

Englewood Cliffs, NJ DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical consists of a detailed health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation for all operators of commercial motor vehicles. This assessment confirms that drivers are adequately fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to manage substantial vehicles on roadways. Conducted by a certified medical examiner found on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, passing it grants a medical certificate necessary for retaining a valid CDL according to FMCSA rules. For guidance on which DOT physical might be needed if regulated by another DOT agency, 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: Less than 20/40 vision in both eyes, inability to distinguish traffic light colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension uncontrolled (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, uncontrolled angina, stroke, or an uncleared defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes resulting in low blood sugar episodes frequently or complications like neuropathy or impaired vision that hinder safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Conditions: Untreated sleep apnea causing drowsiness during the day or severe lung conditions obstructing oxygenation.
• Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy or seizure disorders (unless exempt), or conditions leading to unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking.
• Substance Misuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or abuse of prescription drugs impacting driving.
• Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled psychiatric conditions or cognitive impairments affecting judgment or reaction time.

Some matters might cause a temporary disqualification until medical documentation is supplied (controlled blood pressure, diabetes management). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA.