DOT Physical Exams - Carolina Beach, NC

Carolina Beach, NC DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

The DOT physical is an in-depth health screening mandated by the U.S. Department of Transportation for drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This test is essential to ensure that drivers are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to handle large vehicles safely on the highways. A certified medical examiner (CME) from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conducts the assessment. Successfully passing the exam results in obtaining a DOT medical certificate, also known as a Medical Examiners Certificate or DOT medical card, necessary for keeping a CDL license valid under FMCSA rules. If you are subject to other DOT regulations and need help understanding the specific exam required, you can 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 vision is worse than 20/40 per eye (corrected) or unable to discern traffic lights; hearing cannot detect a forced whisper at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), a recent heart episode or stroke, uncontrolled angina, or having an unsanctioned defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Unregulated diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy or vision issues that hinder safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing drowsiness or severe lung disease impairing oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders (without exemptions), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss or uncontrolled tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Current use of illegal substances, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescription drugs that hinder driving abilities.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar with recent episodes) or cognitive issues affecting reaction time and judgment.

Under FMCSA rules, some issues may result in temporary disqualification while addressing them with medical documentation (e.g., controlled hypertension). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are considered generally permanently disqualifying.