DOT Physical Exams - West Newton, PA

West Newton, PA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical exam is an in-depth health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation for all commercial motor vehicle operators. This test ascertains the physical, mental, and emotional wellness required for safe operation of large vehicles on roads open to the public. Only certified medical examiners listed on the National Registry administer the DOT physical. Successful completion awards a DOT medical certificate, necessary for maintaining a valid CDL per FMCSA rules. For guidance on which DOT physical applies, particularly if you're in another DOT-regulated sector, give us a call 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: Suffering from vision loose with correction worse than 20/40 in each eye, inability to identify traffic light colors, or hearing loss preventing the detection of a whispered voice from 5 feet away.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent cardiac arrest, stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or a heart implantable defibrillator lacking clearance.
• Diabetes: Non-managed diabetes known for large low-blood-sugar episodes or issues like vision problems that hinder driving safely.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated apnea causing daytime drowsiness, or serious lung disorder affecting oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epileptic disorders, conditions causing sudden blackout, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking, barring exemptions.
• Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or improper prescription medicine use negatively impacting driving skills.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged mental disorders or cognitive dysfunction impairing quick thinking/reaction time.

Some medical issues can temporarily disqualify you until medical proof or documentation is given, like controlled blood pressure or managed diabetes. Some conditions are usually deemed permanently disqualifying under FMCSA rules, like untreated seizure issues or heart defibrillators.