DOT Physical Exams - Ohio
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAOhio DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an extensive health evaluation stipulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial vehicle drivers. This examination verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit for safely navigating large vehicles on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, successfully completing the exam earns a DOT medical card, vital for maintaining a valid CDL under FMCSA rules. For guidance on DOT agency-specific physicals, dial 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 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: Ohio
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You are required to hold a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) in class A, B, or C for interstate trade
- Drive vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating in interstate trade
- Transport more than 8 for-hire or over 15 non-hire passengers
- Carry hazardous materials needing DOT placards
- Are employed by DOT-regulated entities such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where DOT medical clearance is essential
Location: Ohio
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- Eyewear and prescription
- Medication list with doses
- CPAP usage info (if needed)
- Specialist clearances (heart issues, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C and blood pressure logs if subject to monitoring
Location: Ohio
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be issued
- Temporary disqualification
- Referral for treatment to your primary care doctor
- FMCSA exemptions for certain medical conditions
- Employer Notification
- Next Steps (address the medical issues and retake the exam)
Location: Ohio
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.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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