Can high blood pressure make you fail a DOT physical?

Yes. Drivers with blood pressure at or above 180/110 mmHg will fail the DOT physical. Lower levels of hypertension may result in shorter certification periods if under treatment.

Does diabetes disqualify you from a DOT physical?

Not always. Controlled diabetes with proper documentation may be allowed. Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications can cause disqualification until managed.

Will sleep apnea cause you to fail a DOT physical?

Untreated or uncontrolled sleep apnea that causes daytime drowsiness can disqualify a driver. However, drivers who are compliant with CPAP or other treatments may qualify with documentation.

DOT Physical Exams - South Carolina

Q: What will fail a DOT physical?

A driver may fail a DOT physical if they have uncontrolled high blood pressure (â‰¥180/110 mmHg), serious vision or hearing deficiencies, uncontrolled diabetes with hypoglycemia, untreated sleep apnea, seizure disorders, substance abuse, or severe psychiatric/cognitive conditions. Some issues may result in temporary disqualification until proper treatment or documentation is provided.

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South Carolina DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

DOT physical exams are thorough check-ups required by the Department of Transportation for commercial vehicle drivers. These evaluations confirm drivers' physical, mental, and emotional capacity to safely handle hefty vehicles on public highways. Conducted by a Certified Medical Examiner from the National Registry, passing grants a DOT medical certificate, necessary for a valid CDL per FMCSA rules. For guidance on specific requirements, 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?

Health History Review
Vision Test

Hearing Test
Urinalysis

Vital Signs
Physical Examination

DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available

What is checked in a DOT Physical?

Health history review and medication assessment
Vision screening (corrective lenses allowed; minimum standards apply)
Hearing assessment (forced whisper or audiometry)
Blood pressure and pulse rate
Physical examination (systems review)
Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, 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 in South Carolina.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

You must have a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:

Have a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A,B, or C for interstate commerce
Drive a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
Transport more than 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (not for hire)
Transport hazardous materials that require placarding under DOT regulations
Work for employers regulated by DOT agencies such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA or USCG where DOT medical qualification is required in South Carolina

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 South Carolina.

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)

After addressing any disqualifying medical issues, ensure to have your exam retaken in South Carolina for reevaluation.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Fail to see 20/40 each eye (even with correction) or can't identify traffic signal colors; Hearing issues preventing a forced whisper at 5 ft.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: High BP (â‰¥180/110), a recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an implanted defibrillator lacking medical clearance.
Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with complications like low blood sugar episodes, neuropathy, or visual impairment hampering safe driving.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory: Untreated sleep apnea causing day sleepiness or a severe lung disease.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy unless exempt, conditions leading to sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescriptions impairing driving.
Psychiatric & Cognitive: Severe mental illnesses like unmanaged schizophrenia or bipolar, or cognitive decline affecting judgment and responses.

Issues may temporarily disqualify you until providing clearance (e.g., managed blood pressure). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are often permanently disqualifying under FMCSA standards.