DOT Physical Exams - Katherine, AZ
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAKatherine, AZ DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator. This examination establishes that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of maneuvering large vehicles safely on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts the exam. Success in this exam awards the driver a DOT medical certificate, necessary to keep a valid CDL license as per FMCSA guidelines. If another DOT agency regulates you and you're unsure which DOT physical you require, call 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?
Vision Test
Urinalysis
Physical Examination
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What is checked in a DOT Physical?
- Review of health history and medication check
- Vision test (corrective lenses acceptable; must meet minimum vision standards)
- Hearing check (by forced whisper or audio test)
- Examination of blood pressure and pulse
- Comprehensive physical check-up (general systems review)
- Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, glucose levels)
Once completed successfully, the Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) might be issued for a maximum of 24 months. Some conditions may need periodic certification or special documentation. Katherine, NJ.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You are required to hold a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) in class A, B, or C for interstate trade
- Drive vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating in interstate trade
- Transport more than 8 for-hire or over 15 non-hire passengers
- Carry hazardous materials needing DOT placards
- Are employed by DOT-regulated entities such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where DOT medical clearance is essential
Location: Katherine, OH
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government ID photo
- Eyewear & prescriptions
- Current medication details
- CPAP usage data (if needed)
- Doctor approvals (for heart, apnea, diabetes)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if watched
Be prepared in Katherine, TX for your appointment.
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)
Failing the exam means the driver has to address the medical issues before another attempt. Katherine, RI drivers, like those in all states, must meet these criteria to ensure the safety of their commercial driving operations.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision worse than 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), difficulty in recognizing traffic signal colors, or hearing deficiency affecting a forced whisper at a 5-foot distance.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg) not under control, recent heart attack or stroke, uncontrolled angina, or a defibrillator implant lacking approval.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with recurrent low blood sugar or complications disrupting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Concerns: Untreated sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness, or serious lung disease affecting oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Seizure disorders (exceptions allowed), conditions leading to loss of consciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Present illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of medications affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric disorders not under control (e.g., schizophrenia, recent bipolar episodes) or cognitive decline influencing decision-making and response times.
Some conditions may cause temporary disqualification till medical approval or documentation is provided (e.g., managed blood pressure, diabetes handled well). Others, like untreated seizure disorders or unapproved implanted defibrillators, are typically considered permanently disqualifying under FMCSA standards.
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