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 Washington, DC DOT physical include?

The DOT physical exam in Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC needs to get a DOT physical?

Any driver holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for interstate or intrastate commerce in Washington, DC, 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 Washington, DC?

Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC state requirements.

What should I bring with me to the DOT physical in Washington, DC?

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 Washington, DC 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 - Washington, DC

Washington, DC DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an in-depth health check mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial drivers. This assessment ensures that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of managing large vehicles on public roads. A certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the NRCME conducts the exam. Passing results in obtaining a DOT medical card, essential for maintaining a valid CDL license under FMCSA regulations. Call us at 800-221-4291 if another DOT agency regulates you and you need guidance on the required exam.

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?

Review of health records and medication use
Vision check (corrective lenses possible; minimum standards must be met)
Hearing test (using whisper or audiometry methods)
Blood pressure and pulse measures
Overall physical health examination (system review)
Urinalysis (to check gravity, protein, glucose levels)

In Washington, WA, upon success, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) could be valid for up to 24 months. Some health issues might require shorter certification periods or additional specialist input.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

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

Have a commercial driver's license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
Drive a vehicle weighing over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
Transport over 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 passengers (not for hire)
Move hazardous materials needing placarding as per DOT regulations
Work for DOT-regulated employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG needing DOT medical qualification in Washington, AR

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

State-issued photo ID
Eye-wear & related prescriptions
Medication names & dosages list
Data on CPAP use (if relevant)
Specialist approval (for heart, apnea, diabetes issues, etc.)
Recent A1C/blood pressure records if monitored

Ensure all documents are ready for your examination in Washington, WA to avoid delays.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

Medical card will not be granted
Temporary ineligibility
Recommendation for treatment by your doctor
FMCSA exemptions for specific conditions
Notification to the employer
Subsequent actions (resolve medical concerns and redo the examination)

This procedure applies to Washington, KY-based drivers needing medical clearance due to listed conditions.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Fail to see 20/40 each eye (even with correction) or can't identify traffic signal colors; Hearing issues preventing a forced whisper at 5 ft.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: High BP (â‰¥180/110), a recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an implanted defibrillator lacking medical clearance.
Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with complications like low blood sugar episodes, neuropathy, or visual impairment hampering safe driving.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory: Untreated sleep apnea causing day sleepiness or a severe lung disease.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy unless exempt, conditions leading to sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescriptions impairing driving.
Psychiatric & Cognitive: Severe mental illnesses like unmanaged schizophrenia or bipolar, or cognitive decline affecting judgment and responses.

Issues may temporarily disqualify you until providing clearance (e.g., managed blood pressure). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are often permanently disqualifying under FMCSA standards.

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

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DOT Physical Exams - Washington, DC

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34 DOT Drug-Testing Centers in Washington

815 Connecticut Ave Nw0.38 miles

2029 K St Nw Ste 3010.71 miles

1145 19th St Nw Ste 6010.77 miles

1145 19th Street Nw Suite 5060.80 miles

1140 19th St Nw Ste 7000.81 miles

2440 M St Nw Ste 414,1.13 miles

911 U St Nw1.63 miles

3422 Georgia Ave Nw2.65 miles

3301 Wilson Blvd3.47 miles

3263 Columbia Pike3.70 miles

920 Varnum St Ne4.00 miles

1005 N Glebe Rd Ste 1404.34 miles

4121 Minnesota Ave Ne4.83 miles

5550 Columbia Pike Apt 5515.30 miles

6064 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church Medical Center5.92 miles

4320 Seminary Rd6.13 miles

225 Reinekers Ln6.34 miles

1401 Blair Mill Rd Apt 12226.57 miles

8121 Georgia Ave Ste 2086.61 miles

4527 Duke St6.91 miles

5130 Duke St Ste 107.38 miles

8218 Wisconsin Ave Ste 2087.42 miles

5606 Holton Ln7.46 miles

6020 Richmond Hwy Ste 1007.64 miles

920 W Broad St Ste B7.91 miles

6144 Edsall Rd Apt 3038.21 miles

9801 Georgia Ave Ste 2228.38 miles

6715 Little River Turnpike Ste 3008.88 miles

4355 Forestville Rd Apt 3029.67 miles

8700 Central Ave Ste 2049.77 miles

11002 Veirs Mill Rd Ste 7009.81 miles

5590 General Washington Dr9.85 miles

6201 Greenbelt Rd, Suite M39.89 miles

1600a Brightseat Rd Apt 3019.97 miles

Washington, DC 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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