DOT Physical Exams - Aiken, SC

Aiken, SC DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an extensive health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This examination verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally equipped to handle large vehicles on public roadways safely. A certified medical examiner (CME), listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), conducts the DOT physical. Success in the exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, or Medical Examiners Certificate, often referred to as a DOT medical card, necessary to uphold a valid CDL license per FMCSA guidelines. If you're subject to another DOT agency's regulation and require help identifying the required DOT physical, 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: Vision less than 20/40 in each eye (with correction), trouble distinguishing traffic signal colors, or hearing loss that prevents recognizing a forced whisper at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an implanted defibrillator without approval.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications (neuropathy, vision impairment) affecting safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness, or severe respiratory diseases affecting oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or uncontrolled seizure disorders (unless exempted), conditions causing unexpected consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Use of illicit drugs, alcohol dependence, or misuse of medications impairing driving abilities.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe untreated psychiatric illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive impairments affecting judgment and response time.

Temporary issues may temporarily disqualify you until you provide the necessary medical clearance or documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure, diabetes management). Other conditions, such as untreated seizure disorders or implanted defibrillators, are usually considered permanently disqualifying according to FMCSA rules.