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.

DOT Physical Exams - Georgia

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Georgia DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical examination, mandated by the Department of Transportation, is essential for all commercial motor vehicle drivers. This thorough checkup confirms that drivers are capable of operating large vehicles safely on public roads, both physically and mentally. Conducted by certified medical professionals listed in the National Registry, successfully passing this exam grants drivers the DOT medical certificate. This certificate is necessary for keeping a valid CDL license according to FMCSA standards. If you're governed by a different DOT authority and need guidance on which DOT physical applies to you, dial 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

DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available

What is checked in a DOT Physical?

Health history assessment and medication review
Vision assessment (corrective lenses acceptable; minimum criteria apply)
Hearing assessment (whisper test or audiometry)
Blood pressure measurement and pulse check
Physical exam (systematic review)
Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, glucose levels)

On successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be issued for up to 24 months; some conditions may demand shorter certification or specialist verification, including in Georgia.

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 Georgia.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Government-issued photo ID
Eyewear & prescription details
Medication list with dosages
CPAP data (if relevant)
Specialist authorizations (cardiac, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
Recent A1C/blood pressure records if applicable

Ensure your documents are in order for DOT physical assessment, maintaining adherence to rules and regulations, particularly within Georgia.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

No Medical card will be granted
Temporary disqualification ensues
Referral for additional care to your primary doctor
FMCSA waivers might exist for some medical issues
Notification to employer
Consequent Steps (treat medical concerns and redo the evaluation)

If affected, ensure you address these concerns and seek insights on meeting requirements within Georgia.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Vision less accurate than 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), struggles distinguishing traffic light colors, or hearing deficits affecting the detection of a whisper at 5 feet distance.
Blood Pressure & Heart Conditions: Hypertension with levels â‰¥180/110 mmHg, recent heart attack, strokes, poorly managed angina, or a defibrillator without approval.
Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic episodes or complications (like neuropathy or impaired vision) compromising safe driving.
Sleep Apnea & Breathing Problems: Unmanaged sleep apnea causing excessive daytime sleepiness, or severe lung diseases disturbing oxygen levels.
Neurological Issues: Epilepsy or seizure disorders (without an exemption), conditions causing sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or unmanageable tremors.
Substance Abuse: Current use of illegal drugs, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescribed drugs affecting driving capability.
Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric disorders (like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive impairments affecting judgment and response time.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Certain issues could only temporarily disqualify an individual until they provide medical clearances or documents (e.g., stable blood pressure or diabetes control). Others like untreated seizure disorders or defibrillators are generally regarded as permanent disqualifiers according to FMCSA.