DOT Physical Exams - Columbia, AL

Columbia, AL DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a thorough health examination mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). This checkup is crucial to confirm that drivers are in the right physical, mental, and emotional condition to safely maneuver large vehicles on public streets. A certified medical examiner (CME) enlisted on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conducts the DOT physical. Successfully passing the physical allows drivers to obtain a DOT medical certificate (also recognized as a DOT medical card), which is necessary for maintaining a current CDL under FMCSA guidelines. If you're governed by a different DOT agency and require help identifying the necessary DOT physical, reach out to 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: Inability to achieve 20/40 vision in each eye even with correction, trouble distinguishing traffic signal colors, or hearing issues affecting a forced whisper test at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Blood pressure above 180/110 mmHg, recent heart attack or stroke, unchecked angina, or an implanted defibrillator lacking medical clearance.
• Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes causing frequent hypoglycemia or issues like neuropathy and impaired vision affecting safe vehicle operation.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Problems: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness, or severe respiratory disease impacting oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizures without exemption, conditions resulting in unpredictable unconsciousness, dizziness, or tremors not under control.
• Substance Use: Use of illicit substances, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescribed medications affecting driving abilities.
• Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Severe and unstable mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes, or cognitive issues impacting decision-making and reaction times.

Temporary or permanent disqualification applies depending on the medical issue. Conditions such as seizure disorders without treatment or implanted defibrillators are typically deemed permanent disqualifications per FMCSA standards.