DOT Physical Exams - Sumter, SC
Locations, All Cities, All States
FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSASumter, SC DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation for commercial motor vehicle operators. This assessment guarantees drivers are fit on physical, mental, and emotional levels to safely handle large vehicles on public roadways. A certified medical examiner from the National Registry performs the exam. Successful completion awards a DOT medical certificate, necessary for a valid CDL per FMCSA rules. Questions? 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?
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 check
- Vision check (glasses/contacts if needed; standards apply)
- Hearing assessment (whisper test or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse measure
- Complete physical examination (systematic review)
- Urine test (specific gravity, proteins, glucose levels)
Once you pass, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) could be issued valid for 24 months; however, some conditions may require shorter certification or require specialist documentation, especially in states like Sumter, ND.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
In Sumter, WA, possessing a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for cross-state trade
- Drive vehicles over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in cross-state trade
- Carry more than 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials needing DOT-regulated placarding
- Work under DOT agency regulations like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG requiring DOT medical credentials
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- Glasses/contacts & prescriptions
- Medication list & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
This pertains to all medical exams conducted in Sumter, IA.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be distributed
- Disqualification may be temporary
- You may be directed to get treatment by your primary healthcare provider
- FMCSA exceptions exist for specific health conditions
- Notification to your employer
- Your next step involves addressing the medical issues and retaking the exam
Failing to meet medical standards in Sumter, MI could involve temporary disqualification with a chance for reinstatement upon meeting health criteria or permanent disqualification for certain conditions, requiring corrective measures for retesting.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity worse than 20/40 in both eyes with correction or inability to see traffic colors; hearing loss preventing a whispered voice recognition at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, stroke, untreated angina, or defibrillator implant without approval.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic episodes or complications like neuropathy affecting driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing sleepiness during the day or severe respiratory disorder affecting oxygen supply.
- Neurological Disorders: Epileptic/seizure disorders unless exempt, or conditions triggering loss of consciousness, dizziness, or tremors.
- Substance Use: Current illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescribed drugs affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent symptoms) or cognitive deficiencies affecting response and decision-making.
Some medical conditions might temporarily disqualify until medical evaluations or documentation are provided, such as managed blood pressure or diabetes control; whereas conditions like untreated seizures or defibrillator implants often lead to a permanent disqualification under FMCSA guidelines.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers
