DOT Physical Exams - Watertown, TN

Watertown, TN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator. This examination establishes that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of maneuvering large vehicles safely on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts the exam. Success in this exam awards the driver a DOT medical certificate, necessary to keep a valid CDL license as per FMCSA guidelines. If another DOT agency regulates you and you're unsure which DOT physical you require, 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?

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 not meeting 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), failing to identify traffic colors, or hearing deficiently.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent cardiac events, or certain heart devices.
• Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes causing dangerous conditions or nerve damage interfering with driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory: Untreated apnea causing sleepiness or serious lung conditions.
• Neurological: Epilepsy or conditions causing blackouts.
• Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use or unsafe prescription medication use.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive: Severe mental illness or cognitive issues affecting judgment.

Sometimes, such conditions may only result in temporary disqualification while waiting for medical documentation like blood pressure control.