DOT Physical Exams - Dunkirk, NY

Dunkirk, NY DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

The Department of Transportation mandates a thorough health check-up for all commercial motor vehicle operators. The DOT physical is a key assessment to confirm that these drivers are safely equipped, both physically and mentally, to handle large vehicles on busy streets. Conducted by a certified medical professional listed in the National Registry, passing this test enables the issuance of a DOT medical certificate, necessary for maintaining a CDL license under FMCSA norms. If other DOT agencies regulate you, call 800-221-4291 for guidance.

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: Failing to meet 20/40 vision standard in each eye with correction, inability to identify traffic signal colors, or hearing deficits that restrict forced whisper detection at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac event, stroke, unmanaged angina, or unapproved implanted defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes resulting in frequent low blood glucose incidents or complications (e.g., nerve or vision problems jeopardizing driving safety).
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Unaddressed sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness, or severe lung disease interfering with proper oxygenation.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or other seizure conditions (barring exemptions), disorders causing sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Current illegal substance use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescriptions impairing driving abilities.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Uncontrolled serious psychiatric disorders (such as schizophrenia or bipolar events) or cognitive issues affecting judgment and reaction.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some problems may only temporarily disqualify until medical clearance or documentation is provided (e.g., controlled blood pressure). Others, like untreated seizure disorders or implanted defibrillators, are typically permanent disqualifications under FMCSA guidelines.