DOT Physical Exams - Clark, SD
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAClark, SD 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 health history and medications
- Vision test (corrective lenses accepted, minimum standards needed)
- Hearing evaluation (forced whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse examination
- Comprehensive physical checkup (systems review)
- Urinalysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose)
After passing, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) might be valid for up to 24 months; however, specific conditions could demand more frequent certifications or expert notes. This applies in Clark, ME.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You must possess a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR for interstate travel
- Transport over 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Handle hazardous materials that require placarding under DOT rules
- Work for employers governed by DOT bodies such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where DOT medical certification is necessary
Including criteria for Clark, IA.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Corrective lenses or prescription details
- Medication list with dosages
- Data on CPAP usage, if applicable
- Specialist advice for conditions like cardiology, apnea, or diabetes
- Recent A1C or blood pressure records if required
Make sure to have all necessary documents ready, as requirements apply in Clark, ME.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No issuance of a Medical card
- Temporary ineligibility
- Advice to seek treatment from a primary physician
- Possible FMCSA medical exemptions
- Notification to employer
- Further steps require medical resolution and exam retake
This applies within Clark, AZ.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity worse than 20/40 in either eye (even with glasses), difficulty identifying traffic lights, or inability to hear a whispered voice within 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Severe hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, unstable angina, or an unapproved defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Frequent hypoglycemic events or complications like neuropathy impacting driving safety from uncontrolled diabetes.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea resulting in daytime sleepiness or severe lung conditions affecting breathing.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizures (unless exempt), conditions causing sudden blackouts or involuntary tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current illegal drug use, alcohol abuse, or misuse of prescription drugs affecting motor skills.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe mental health issues (e.g., uncontrolled schizophrenia) or cognitive deficits harming decision-making skills.
Some conditions may temporarily prevent certification until resolved with documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure). Other issues, like unmanaged seizures, usually lead to permanent ineligibility under FMCSA norms.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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