DOT Physical Exams - Albemarle, NC

Locations, All Cities, All States

FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSA


Albemarle, NC DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. It confirms that professional drivers possess the physical, mental, and emotional fitness necessary to operate large vehicles safely on public highways. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), essential for retaining a valid CDL license under FMCSA rules. If adherence to another DOT agency is required, and you need guidance on the appropriate DOT physical, 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?

  • Review of health history and medications
  • Vision check (corrective lenses allowed; must meet minimum standards)
  • Hearing evaluation (such as forced whisper test)
  • Blood pressure and pulse measurement
  • Physical exam (including systems review)
  • Urinalysis (for specific gravity, proteins, glucose)

Upon successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be issued for up to 24 months. Some conditions may require shorter certification or specialist documentation.

Location: Albemarle, OH

Who needs a DOT Physical?

You must have a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:

  • Have a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A,B, or C for interstate commerce
  • Drive a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
  • Transport more than 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (not for hire)
  • Transport hazardous materials that require placarding under DOT regulations
  • Work for employers regulated by DOT agencies such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA or USCG where DOT medical qualification is required

Albemarle, RI and other states enforce these rules to ensure public safety on highways.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

  • Government-issued photo identification
  • Eyeglasses/contact lenses & prescription
  • Medication list & dosages
  • CPAP use records (if applicable)
  • Specialist medical clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
  • Recent A1C/blood pressure records if under monitoring. Albemarle, NJ.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

  • No medical card granted
  • Get temporarily disqualified
  • Be referred for treatment by your main healthcare provider
  • Seek FMCSA specific condition exemptions
  • Employers receive notifications
  • Address health concern and re-attempt examination as next steps in Albemarle, NH

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

  • Vision & Hearing: Vision worse than 20/40 with correction, inability to differentiate traffic signal colors, or hearing loss stopping a forced whisper audibility at 5 feet.
  • Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent angina attack, stroke, or implanted defibrillator without approval.
  • Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with recurrent low glucose episodes or complications like neuropathy affecting driving.
  • Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing drowsiness, or severe lung disease limiting oxygenation.
  • Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizures (unless exempt), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
  • Substance Abuse: Present use of illegal substances, alcohol dependency, or prescription medication misuse affecting driving ability.
  • Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder and cognitive impairments impacting judgment and reaction speed.

Certain issues might cause temporary disqualification until medical clearance is provided (e.g., regulated blood pressure). Others, such as untreated seizures, are generally regarded as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA standards.

DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You

Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers

(800) 221-4291