DOT Physical Exams - Medical Lake, WA

Medical Lake, WA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a thorough health check mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle driver. This examination ensures that drivers possess the necessary physical, mental, and emotional health to operate large vehicles safely on public roadways. A certified medical examiner listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners conducts the DOT physical. Successful completion grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, essential for maintaining a valid CDL license as per FMCSA rules. For guidance on the required DOT physical, particularly if regulated by another 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: Visual acuity worse than 20/40 in both eyes with correction or inability to see traffic colors; hearing loss preventing a whispered voice recognition at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, stroke, untreated angina, or defibrillator implant without approval.
• Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic episodes or complications like neuropathy affecting driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing sleepiness during the day or severe respiratory disorder affecting oxygen supply.
• Neurological Disorders: Epileptic/seizure disorders unless exempt, or conditions triggering loss of consciousness, dizziness, or tremors.
• Substance Use: Current illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescribed drugs affecting driving.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent symptoms) or cognitive deficiencies affecting response and decision-making.

Some medical conditions might temporarily disqualify until medical evaluations or documentation are provided, such as managed blood pressure or diabetes control; whereas conditions like untreated seizures or defibrillator implants often lead to a permanent disqualification under FMCSA guidelines.