DOT Physical Exams - Appleton, NY

Appleton, NY DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a thorough health examination mandated by the Department of Transportation for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This assessment ensures drivers possess the necessary physical, mental, and emotional capabilities to drive large vehicles safely on public roads. The exam is conducted by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. Successful completion allows acquisition of a DOT medical certificate, essential for retaining a valid CDL under FMCSA rules. For assistance with determining the appropriate DOT physical required by other DOT agencies, 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?

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: If your vision is worse than 20/40 in each eye even with correction, cannot distinguish traffic signals' colors, or have hearing loss preventing the hearing of a forced whisper at five feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Issues such as uncontrolled hypertension at or above 180/110 mmHg, recent cardiac events, or having a defibrillator without medical clearance.
• Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes with recurrent low sugar episodes or complications like neuropathy that affect safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing drowsiness or lung disease affecting oxygenation.
• Neurological Disorders: Epileptic conditions (unless exempt), those causing sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Usage of illegal drugs, alcohol dependency, or misuse of medication impairing driving.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled psychiatric disorders affecting judgment or reaction time.

Certain issues may temporarily disqualify you until proper documentation is provided, such as blood pressure control. Others like untreated seizures are generally seen as permanent disqualifications per FMCSA.