DOT Physical Exams - Cherokee, AL
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSACherokee, AL 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?
- 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
This applies specifically to Cherokee, WI.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A current DOT medical certificate (card) is essential if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) of class A,B, or C for interstate business
- Operate a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Carry more than 8 for-hire passengers or over 15 non-hire passengers
- Transport hazardous materials needing placarding under DOT norms
- Are employed by DOT-regulated entities like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where medical qualification under DOT is necessary
Ensure fulfillment of these standards in Cherokee, MO.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued identification with photo
- Spectacles/contact lenses and prescription
- Medication list with dosages
- CPAP usage records if relevant
- Specialist medical approvals (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent logs for A1C or blood pressure when monitored
Note: Cherokee, OR requires these for a smooth process.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card can be released
- Provisional disqualification
- Refer back to primary care for treatment
- FMCSA grants exceptions for specific illnesses
- Notice to employer
- Follow-up steps (resolve medical concerns and reattempt examination)
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Less than 20/40 vision in both eyes, inability to distinguish traffic light colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension uncontrolled (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, uncontrolled angina, stroke, or an uncleared defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes resulting in low blood sugar episodes frequently or complications like neuropathy or impaired vision that hinder safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Conditions: Untreated sleep apnea causing drowsiness during the day or severe lung conditions obstructing oxygenation.
- Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy or seizure disorders (unless exempt), or conditions leading to unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking.
- Substance Misuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or abuse of prescription drugs impacting driving.
- Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled psychiatric conditions or cognitive impairments affecting judgment or reaction time.
Some matters might cause a temporary disqualification until medical documentation is supplied (controlled blood pressure, diabetes management). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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