DOT Physical Exams - Kingston, TN
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAKingston, TN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an all-encompassing medical check mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver. This assessment is crucial to verify that professional drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared to operate large vehicles safely on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (also known as a DOT medical card), required to keep a valid CDL license in accordance with FMCSA regulations. If another DOT agency regulates you and you need help finding out which DOT physical you require, please 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?
- 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 Kingston, SC.
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 Kingston, KS
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
These requirements are essential for drivers in Kingston, WY undergoing a DOT physical.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No issuance of Medical card
- Temporary disqualification status
- Recommendation to consult your primary healthcare provider
- Possibility for FMCSA exemptions for specific health conditions
- Notification to employer about your medical status
- Follow-up actions involve addressing medical concerns and taking the exam again
Kingston, UT regulations may also apply to your circumstances, affecting your path to requalification.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to see traffic signal colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or presence of an implanted defibrillator lacking approval.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels with episodes of hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy that hinder safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness, or severe lung issues compromising oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epileptic conditions or other ailments causing unexpected collapses, dizziness, or uncontrollable tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of medication affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia), or cognitive problems affecting decision-making and reaction speed.
Disqualifications can be temporary until medical clearance is obtained (e.g., regulated blood pressure), while conditions like untreated epilepsy may lead to permanent disqualification per FMCSA standards.
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