DOT Physical Exams - Gig Harbor Peninsula, WA

Gig Harbor Peninsula, WA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a thorough health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This examination verifies that drivers possess the physical, mental, and emotional capacity to safely maneuver large vehicles on public routes. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing the exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, essential for maintaining a valid CDL under FMCSA guidelines. For guidance on the specific DOT physical needed if overseen by a different DOT agency, 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?

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 below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to discern signal colors, or hearing inability to detect a whisper from 5 feet away.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart events, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or non-cleared defibrillator implants.
• Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications that hinder safe operation.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing fatigue, or severe pulmonary disease impairing oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or other seizure conditions (unless exempted), disorders causing sudden consciousness loss, vertigo, or tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Current use of illicit drugs, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescriptions affecting driving capabilities.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric conditions or cognitive deficits that affect decision-making and reflexes.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some conditions might temporarily disqualify you until medical documentation is provided (e.g., hypertension control, diabetes management). Others, such as untreated seizures or defibrillators, are often deemed permanently disqualifying by FMCSA.