Can high blood pressure make you fail a DOT physical?

Yes. Drivers with blood pressure at or above 180/110 mmHg will fail the DOT physical. Lower levels of hypertension may result in shorter certification periods if under treatment.

Does diabetes disqualify you from a DOT physical?

Not always. Controlled diabetes with proper documentation may be allowed. Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications can cause disqualification until managed.

Will sleep apnea cause you to fail a DOT physical?

Untreated or uncontrolled sleep apnea that causes daytime drowsiness can disqualify a driver. However, drivers who are compliant with CPAP or other treatments may qualify with documentation.

What does the Tuscaloosa, AL DOT physical include?

The DOT physical exam in Tuscaloosa, AL typically includes a review of medical history and medications, vision and hearing tests, measurement of blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, urinalysis and a general physical exam by a certified medical examiner. Upon passing, you may receive a medical examiner’s certificate valid for up to 24 months.

Who in Tuscaloosa, AL needs to get a DOT physical?

Any driver holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for interstate or intrastate commerce in Tuscaloosa, AL, or operating a commercial motor vehicle regulated by the DOT, must have a valid medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner.

Where can I have the DOT physical done in Tuscaloosa, AL?

Tuscaloosa, AL drivers can schedule their DOT physical through Accredited Drug Testing’s network of certified examiners and collection sites across the state, ensuring compliance with both federal and Tuscaloosa, AL state requirements.

What should I bring with me to the DOT physical in Tuscaloosa, AL?

Bring a photo ID, your current medical certificate if applicable, list of medications and dosages, any specialist clearance letters (for conditions such as sleep apnea or cardiac issues) and glasses or contact lens prescription if used.

What happens if I don’t pass my Tuscaloosa, AL DOT physical?

If you fail the exam, you will not receive the medical certificate and your driving privileges under the DOT‐regulated commercial vehicle operations may be suspended until you meet the qualifying medical requirements and are re-examined.

DOT Physical - Tuscaloosa, AL

Tuscaloosa, AL DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a detailed health check mandated by the Department of Transportation for all commercial drivers. This examination confirms that they are physically, mentally, and emotionally equipped for safe operation of large trucks and buses. A certified medical examiner from the NRCME conducts the examination. Successfully passing grants a DOT medical certificate, essential for retaining a CDL under FMCSA rules. For guidance on specific DOT physical requirements, 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?

Health History Review
Vision Test

Hearing Test
Urinalysis

Vital Signs
Physical Examination

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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)

In Tuscaloosa, WV, completion leads to a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid for up to 24 months. Some conditions may require shorter certification or specialist documentation.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

You must possess a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:

Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for cross-state commerce
Operate a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR across state lines
Carry more than 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 passengers (not for hire)
Transport hazardous materials requiring DOT-compliant placards
Work in roles governed by DOT authorities such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG mandating DOT medical qualification, inclusive of Tuscaloosa, GA.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Government ID with photo
Eyeglasses/contact lenses and prescription
A list of all medications and their dosages
Data from CPAP usage (if applicable)
Documentation from specialists (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes)
Recent A1C or blood pressure logs if needed

Ensure you have everything necessary for a complete examination, especially in Tuscaloosa, FL.

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)

Drivers in Tuscaloosa, WY should take note of these steps in the event of a failed exam.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Poor vision worse than 20/40 in each eye (with correction), inability to differentiate traffic signal colors, or hearing loss that restricts hearing a whisper at 5 feet.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (>=180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or a defibrillator without approval.
Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications (neuropathy, eyesight issues) affecting safe driving.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime fatigue, or severe lung disease inhibiting oxygen exchange.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders (unless exempted), conditions leading to sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
Substance Abuse: Current use of illegal substances, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescribed drugs impairing driving.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled mental illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent incidents) or cognitive difficulties affecting decision-making and reaction speed.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification

Certain problems may temporarily disqualify you until you provide medical clearance (e.g., controlled high blood pressure, diabetes management). Others, such as untreated seizures or implanted defibrillators, are often considered permanently disqualifying based on FMCSA rules.

DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You

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References:
- FMCSA Medical Examiner Physical Qualification Standards (Â§391.41)
- 49 CFR Part 391 - Qualification of Drivers
- Medical Examiner's Handbook
- FMCSA Driver Exemptions

After Hours Scheduling

DOT Physical Exams - Tuscaloosa, AL

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37 DOT Drug-Testing Centers in Tuscaloosa

2008 Paul W Bryant Dr Ste B0.51 miles

701 University Blvd E Ste 2112.11 miles

902 Dr Edward Hillard Dr.2.24 miles

1251 Mcfarland Blvd Ne2.45 miles

3909 Mcfarland Blvd2.56 miles

5005 Oscar Baxter Dr3.21 miles

1001 Mimosa Park Rd3.83 miles

819 Mimosa Park Rd3.98 miles

2 Coventry4.01 miles

1771 Skyland Blvd E4.28 miles

9070 Highway 69 S4.94 miles

223 Pierson Ave30.29 miles

241 Robert K Wilson Dr30.42 miles

405 Belcher St30.54 miles

509 Wilson Ave31.39 miles

109 4th Ave Ne33.84 miles

4760 Eastern Valley Rd Ste 10233.87 miles

4810 Bell Hill Rd34.12 miles

4917 Promenade Pkwy Ste 10734.23 miles

995 9th Ave Sw35.28 miles

919 Medical Center Dr35.30 miles

709 Memorial Dr35.40 miles

1653 Temple Ave N37.38 miles

122 17th Ct Ne37.52 miles

6554 Aaron Aronov Dr41.52 miles

5569 Grove Blvd Ste 12143.76 miles

3143 Pelham Pkwy Ste 10044.16 miles

2970 Pelham Pkwy44.22 miles

120 Colonial Promenade Pkwy44.30 miles

920 S 18th St Ste B44.32 miles

110 Oxmoor Ct44.88 miles

1678 Montgomery Hwy Ste 10445.80 miles

1680 Montgomery Hwy45.84 miles

1664 Forestdale Blvd45.94 miles

833 Princeton Ave Sw46.24 miles

2146 Centennial Dr46.26 miles

3321 Lorna Rd Ste 646.30 miles

Tuscaloosa, AL DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

What Does a DOT Physical Include?

What is checked in a DOT Physical?

Who needs a DOT Physical?

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You

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