DOT Physical Exams - Bell Arthur, NC
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSABell Arthur, NC DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health check mandated
by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver. This examination checks if drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of handling large vehicles safely on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing the test grants a DOT medical certificate, necessary for maintaining a valid CDL license under FMCSA rules. If another DOT agency oversees your activities and you need help determining the required DOT physical, 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?
Vision Test
Urinalysis
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 test (with corrective lenses allowed) meeting minimum standards
- Hearing examination (via forced whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse measurement
- Full physical examination (systems checked)
- Urinalysis (testing for specific gravity, protein, glucose)
After successful completion, the Medical Examiner's Certificate could be valid for up to 24 months. Some conditions might prompt shorter certification or need specialist input. Stay informed in Bell Arthur, FL.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
Ensure you possess a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for interstate activities
- Operate a vehicle weighing over 10,001 lbs. GVWR across state lines
- Transport over 8 passengers for payment or more than 15 passengers gratis
- Handle hazardous materials that need placarding under DOT rules
- Are employed by employers governed by DOT agencies such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where medical eligibility is mandated
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government ID with photo
- Eyeglasses/contact lenses and prescription
- A list of all medications and their dosages
- Data from CPAP usage (if applicable)
- Documentation from specialists (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes)
- Recent A1C or blood pressure logs if needed
Ensure you have everything necessary for a complete examination, especially in Bell Arthur, FL.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No medical card issued
- Temporary disqualification
- Referral to your primary care for treatment
- FMCSA exemptions available for select medical issues
- Employer receives notification
- Next steps involve addressing medical concerns before retrying the exam
This is also applicable in Bell Arthur, SD.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Subpar vision (worse than 20/40 per eye) with corrective lenses, inability to distinguish traffic lights, or failed hearing tests (unable to hear a forced whisper from five feet).
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Poor management of hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac events, stroke, unstable angina, or implanted defibrillator without approval.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or severe complications jeopardizing safe driving.
- Respiratory Issues & Sleep Apnea: Untreated sleep apnea causing fatigue or severe respiratory conditions affecting oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizures (unless exempted), disorders causing unexpected fainting, dizziness, or uncontrollable tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Use of banned substances, alcohol dependence, or prescription misuse impairing driving skills.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Issues: Serious unmanaged psychiatric disorders (schizophrenia, recent bipolar episodes) or cognitive deficits affecting judgment and response times.
Some conditions may temporarily disqualify you until resolved. Others, such as untreated epilepsy or defibrillators, often lead to permanent disqualification per FMCSA standards.
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