DOT Physical Exams - West Covina, CA
Locations, All Cities, All States
FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAWest Covina, CA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a detailed health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This examination ensures drivers are capable of handling large vehicles on public roads safely. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry, conducts the evaluation. Successfully passing the exam results in gaining a DOT medical certificate, essential for maintaining a valid CDL as per FMCSA rules. For assistance with DOT agency requirements, 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
For more details, explore local guidelines in West Covina, HI.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
Ensure you possess a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for interstate activities
- Operate a vehicle weighing over 10,001 lbs. GVWR across state lines
- Transport over 8 passengers for payment or more than 15 passengers gratis
- Handle hazardous materials that need placarding under DOT rules
- Are employed by employers governed by DOT agencies such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where medical eligibility is mandated
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- Glasses/contacts & prescriptions
- Medication list & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
This pertains to all medical exams conducted in West Covina, IA.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- Denial of the Medical card
- Temporary ineligibility
- Referral to your main healthcare provider for further treatment
- FMCSA waivers for specific medical conditions
- Notification to your employer
- Further actions include addressing health issues and retrying the exam
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision worse than 20/40 in both eyes with correction, inability to identify traffic signal colors, or hearing loss obstructing hearing a forced whisper at a 5-foot range.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Severe hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, untreated angina, or an implanted defibrillator lacking medical clearance.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes leading to frequent low blood sugar events or complications like neuropathy or impaired vision that hinder safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness or serious lung condition affecting oxygen intake.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizure conditions (except those exempted), disorders leading to sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrollable shaking.
- Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug usage, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescribed medicines that impair driving capabilities.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric disorders (like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with recent mood episodes) or cognitive decline impacting decision-making and reflexes.
Some problems might only result in temporary disqualification until medical clearance or proof of control (e.g., regulated blood pressure, diabetes care) is supplied. Conversely, certain conditions such as untreated seizure disorders or the presence of an implanted defibrillator are generally viewed as permanently disqualifying based on FMCSA guidelines.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers
