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.

What does the Tennessee DOT physical include?

The DOT physical exam in Tennessee typically includes a review of medical history and medications, vision and hearing tests, measurement of blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, urinalysis and a general physical exam by a certified medical examiner. Upon passing, you may receive a medical examiner’s certificate valid for up to 24 months.

Who in Tennessee needs to get a DOT physical?

Any driver holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for interstate or intrastate commerce in Tennessee, or operating a commercial motor vehicle regulated by the DOT, must have a valid medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner.

Where can I have the DOT physical done in Tennessee?

Tennessee drivers can schedule their DOT physical through Accredited Drug Testing’s network of certified examiners and collection sites across the state, ensuring compliance with both federal and Tennessee state requirements.

What should I bring with me to the DOT physical in Tennessee?

Bring a photo ID, your current medical certificate if applicable, list of medications and dosages, any specialist clearance letters (for conditions such as sleep apnea or cardiac issues) and glasses or contact lens prescription if used.

What happens if I don’t pass my Tennessee DOT physical?

If you fail the exam, you will not receive the medical certificate and your driving privileges under the DOT‐regulated commercial vehicle operations may be suspended until you meet the qualifying medical requirements and are re-examined.

DOT Physical Exams - Tennessee

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Tennessee DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A comprehensive health exam mandated by the Department of Transportation is essential for every commercial motor vehicle operator. This assessment verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of handling large trucks or buses on highways. Conducted by a medical examiner certified and listed on the NRCME, passing this exam awards a DOT medical certificate. For DOT agency queries on required exams, 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?

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 evaluation including medication assessment
Eye examination for minimum vision standards with corrective lens allowance
Hearing check through whisper test or audiology
Monitoring of blood pressure and pulse
Comprehensive physical systems exam
Urine analysis for specific gravity, protein, and glucose

In Tennessee, upon successful exam completion, you could receive a Medical Examiner's Certificate valid for up to 24 months. Conditions could require shorter validity or specialist input.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

In Tennessee, to maintain your commercial operations, a valid DOT medical certificate is mandatory if you:

Hold a CDL - class A, B, or C for interstate trade
Operate vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate trade
Carry over 8 passengers (commercial) or beyond 15 (non-commercial)
Haul hazardous materials needing placards as per DOT rules
Are employed by DOT-regulated bodies like FMCSA or similar entities requiring DOT medical qualifications

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Government-issued photo identification
Corrective eyewear & prescription if applicable
List detailing medications & their dosages
Record of CPAP use where necessary
Specialist clearances for conditions like cardiology, apnea, or diabetes
Recent health logs on A1C or blood pressure if monitoring is active

Ensure all requirements are met when attending your exam in Tennessee for accuracy and potential certification validity.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

In Tennessee, lack of a medical card issuance
Faced with temporary exam disqualification
Advised medical treatment via primary healthcare
Possible FMCSA health exemptions
Employer notified regarding outcomes
Steps to proceed involve addressing health issues followed by exam retest

Tennessee applicants must address disqualifying health aspects proactively to regain qualification status.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Vision under 20/40 per eye (corrected), inability to differentiate traffic light colors, or hearing failure to detect a whisper at 5 feet.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (â‰¥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac event, stroke, unmanaged angina, or unapproved defibrillator.
Diabetes: Uncontrolled cases causing hypoglycemic episodes, or complications like neuropathy impairing safe driving.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated apnea causing fatigue, or serious lung conditions reducing oxygen levels.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy (without exemptions), conditions causing sudden unconsciousness or tremors.
Substance Abuse: Current illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or prescription abuse impacting driving abilities.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe mental illness (e.g., untreated schizophrenia, severe bipolar) or cognitive deficits affecting decision-making.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some issues might temporarily disqualify you until clearance is given (e.g., stabilized hypertension). Others, like unmanaged epilepsy, might cause a permanent disqualification under FMCSA standards.

References:
- FMCSA Medical Examiner Physical Qualification Standards (Â§391.41)
- 49 CFR Part 391 - Qualification of Drivers
- Medical Examiner's Handbook
- FMCSA Driver Exemptions