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.

What does the New York DOT physical include?

The DOT physical exam in New York typically includes a review of medical history and medications, vision and hearing tests, measurement of blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, urinalysis and a general physical exam by a certified medical examiner. Upon passing, you may receive a medical examiner’s certificate valid for up to 24 months.

Who in New York needs to get a DOT physical?

Any driver holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for interstate or intrastate commerce in New York, or operating a commercial motor vehicle regulated by the DOT, must have a valid medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner.

Where can I have the DOT physical done in New York?

New York drivers can schedule their DOT physical through Accredited Drug Testing’s network of certified examiners and collection sites across the state, ensuring compliance with both federal and New York state requirements.

What should I bring with me to the DOT physical in New York?

Bring a photo ID, your current medical certificate if applicable, list of medications and dosages, any specialist clearance letters (for conditions such as sleep apnea or cardiac issues) and glasses or contact lens prescription if used.

What happens if I don’t pass my New York DOT physical?

If you fail the exam, you will not receive the medical certificate and your driving privileges under the DOT‐regulated commercial vehicle operations may be suspended until you meet the qualifying medical requirements and are re-examined.

DOT Physical Exams - New York

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New York DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

The DOT physical examination is a thorough health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This examination makes sure that drivers are capable physically, mentally, and emotionally of handling large road vehicles. A certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry conducts the test. Successfully passing grants a DOT medical certificate essential for a CDL under FMCSA rules. For guidance on which specific DOT physical you need, 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?

Medical history and drug review
Vision test (corrective lenses permissible; must meet basic criteria)
Hearing test (whisper test or audiometry)
Monitoring of blood pressure & pulse
Comprehensive physical assessment
Urine test (specific gravity, protein, glucose)

After clearing the exam, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be granted for up to two years. Specific health issues might warrant shorter certification terms or additional specialist documentation required in New York.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

A current DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:

Possess a CDL- class A, B, or C for interstate work
Operate vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR interstate
Convey more than 8 fare-paying passengers or over 15 non-fare passengers
Carry hazardous materials needing DOT placards
Are employed by companies under DOT regulation, like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, requiring DOT medical approval in New York

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Official photo ID
Eyewear & prescription
Documents on medication & dose
CPAP machine data (when applicable)
Medical specialists' approval (i.e., cardiology, for sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if tracked

During your DOT physical in New York, these items will assist in ensuring all required information is available and reviewed.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

No medical certificate granted
Temporary ineligibility
Treatment referral to regular physician
FMCSA special permits for distinct ailments
Notification to employer
Further steps (address health concerns and retake test)

Being located in New York, appropriate action addressing any disqualifying medical conditions noted will facilitate regaining eligibility for DOT certification.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Vision below 20/40 in each eye (with correction), inability to differentiate signal colors, or hearing loss inhibiting recognition of a whispered message at 5 feet.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (â‰¥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or cardiac devices requiring special permission.
Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes causing hypoglycemic episodes or complications (like neuropathy) impairing safe vehicle operation.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing sleepiness, or serious lung conditions affecting oxygen levels.
Neurological Disorders: Conditions like epilepsy or seizure disorders (excluding exemptions) that may lead to loss of consciousness.
Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of medications impacting driving.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe mental health issues unmanaged by medication or cognitive defects impacting safety decisions.