DOT Physical Exams - Swenson, TX
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSASwenson, TX DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
DOT Physical: A thorough health check mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for commercial vehicle operators (CMV) ensures drivers are apt physically, mentally, and emotionally for operating massive vehicles safely on public routes. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing grants a DOT medical certificate, vital for holding a valid CDL per FMCSA rules. Need help determining which exam applies? Call 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 evaluation of medication
- Eye test (corrective eyewear permitted; minimal criteria must be met)
- Ear examination (forced whisper or hearing test)
- Measurement of blood pressure and pulse
- Physical inspection of body systems
- Urine analysis (checking specific gravity, protein, and sugar)
In Swenson, IL, after passing, the Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be issued for up to 24 months. Certain conditions may warrant a shorter certification or necessitate specialist documentation.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
In Swenson, ND, possessing a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is mandatory if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Carry over 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials needing placarding as per DOT rules
- Are employed by agencies governed by DOT, such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical qualification is necessary
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- 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 in Swenson, KS
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be issued
- Temporary disqualification
- Referral for treatment to your primary care doctor
- FMCSA exemptions for certain medical conditions
- Employer Notification
- Next Steps (address the medical issues and retake the exam)
If you're in Swenson, VT, make sure to address these issues promptly before attempting the exam again.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision below 20/40 in each eye (with correction), inability to detect traffic light colors, or hearing loss hindering the ability to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, stroke, unchecked angina, or an implanted defibrillator without authorization.
- Diabetes: Inadequately controlled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic events or complications (neuropathy, vision issues) affecting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime drowsiness, or severe pulmonary disease impairing oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure conditions (unless exempted), issues leading to sudden loss of consciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Ongoing illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescribed drugs affecting driving abilities.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled mental health conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive impairments hampering judgment and reaction speed.
Some conditions may cause temporary disqualification pending medical clearance or documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure, diabetes control). Others, like untreated seizure disorders or having an implanted defibrillator, are generally deemed permanently disqualifying according to FMCSA policies.
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