DOT Physical Exams - Pismo Beach, CA

Pismo Beach, CA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

The DOT physical is an in-depth health screening mandated by the U.S. Department of Transportation for drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This test is essential to ensure that drivers are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to handle large vehicles safely on the highways. A certified medical examiner (CME) from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conducts the assessment. Successfully passing the exam results in obtaining a DOT medical certificate, also known as a Medical Examiners Certificate or DOT medical card, necessary for keeping a CDL license valid under FMCSA rules. If you are subject to other DOT regulations and need help understanding the specific exam required, you can 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 each eye (with correction), inability to recognize traffic light colors, or hearing loss preventing understanding of a whisper at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension uncontrolled (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart event, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or defibrillator without clearance.
• Diabetes: Diabetes not managed properly with frequent hypoglycemia or complications affecting safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness or severe lung disease impairing oxygen intake.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizures, or conditions with sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors without exemptions.
• Substance Abuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or prescription misuse affecting driving.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious untreated psychiatric conditions or cognitive problems impacting decision-making and reaction time.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some conditions may cause temporary disqualification until medical clearance (e.g., controlled blood pressure). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are generally permanently disqualifying under FMCSA.