DOT Physical Exams - Townsville, NC
Locations, All Cities, All States
FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSATownsville, NC DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical examination is a detailed health check mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This test confirms that drivers have the physical, mental, and emotional capability to safely manage large vehicles on public highways. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing the examination grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, also known as a Medical Examiner's Certificate or DOT medical card, necessary to uphold a valid CDL license as per FMCSA standards. If another DOT agency regulates you and you require guidance on which DOT physical you need, 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?
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 medication
- Vision test (corrective lenses okay; minimum standards apply)
- Hearing test (forced whisper/audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse check
- Physical exam (systems check)
- Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Upon successful completion, the Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be issued for up to 24 months. In some cases, shorter certification or specialist documentation might be required. This applies in the Townsville, DC and beyond.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
To hold a valid DOT medical certificate (card) in Townsville, LA, you need one if:
- You possess a commercial driver's license (CDL)- classes A, B, or C for interstate transport
- You drive vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR across state lines
- You transport more than 8 paying passengers or over 15 non-paying passengers
- You carry hazardous materials requiring DOT placarding
- You work for employers under DOT agency regulation like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where medical qualification is mandated
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo
- Glasses/contacts & prescription
- List of medications & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Ensure all necessary documents and equipment are with you when attending your exam in Townsville, SC.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No issuance of Medical card
- Temporary disqualification from driving
- Recommendation for further treatment with your primary care provider
- Potential FMCSA exemptions for specific medical conditions
- Notification to employer regarding disqualification
- Next Steps: Address medical issues and retake the assessment
In Townsville, AL, it is essential to address these issues promptly to resume professional driving.
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.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers