DOT Physical Exams - Metcalf, GA
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAMetcalf, GA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
The Department of Transportation mandates a thorough health check-up for all commercial motor vehicle operators. The DOT physical is a key assessment to confirm that these drivers are safely equipped, both physically and mentally, to handle large vehicles on busy streets. Conducted by a certified medical professional listed in the National Registry, passing this test enables the issuance of a DOT medical certificate, necessary for maintaining a CDL license under FMCSA norms. If other DOT agencies regulate you, call 800-221-4291 for guidance.
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?
- Review of health history and medications
- Vision test (corrective eyewear allowed; meet minimum requirements)
- Hear evaluation (via forced whisper or audiometry)
- Pulse rate and blood pressure check
- Comprehensive physical examination
- Urine analysis (checks for gravity, proteins, glucose)
Once you successfully complete the Metcalf, MD exam, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be valid for a period of up to two years. However, certain conditions may necessitate more frequent certification or additional specialist documentation.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A valid DOT medical card is necessary if you:
- Hold a CDL-class A, B, or C for interstate trade
- Operate vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR across state lines
- Carry more than 8 passengers for pay or over 15 passengers unpaid
- Transport hazardous goods needing DOT permits
- Are employed by entities overseen by DOT divisions like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG requiring DOT medical eligibility.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-Issued Picture ID
- Glasses/Contacts & Prescription
- Complete Medication List & Dosages
- CPAP Data (if used)
- Specialist Clearances (Cardiology, Sleep Apnea, Diabetes)
- Recent A1C/Blood Pressure Logs (if monitored)
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- Failure to receive a Medical certificate
- Temporary disqualification issued
- Recommendation to seek medical treatment with your primary care provider
- Eligible FMCSA waivers for certain medical conditions
- Notification provided to employer about disqualification
- Following procedure for addressing medical issues and re-scheduling the examination for reevaluation.
In Metcalf, CA, adhere to these steps should disqualification be the outcome.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Worse than 20/40 vision per eye (with correction), inability to discern traffic colors, or inability to hear a whisper at five feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled hypertension (≥180/110), recent heart issues like attacks or strokes, or defibrillators needing clearance.
- Diabetes: Issues with uncontrolled diabetes, such as frequent hypoglycemia or vision-affecting neuropathy.
- Respiratory & Sleep: Untreated sleep apnea or significant lung disease causing day fatigue or low oxygen.
- Neuro Disorders: Epilepsy/seizures (unless exempt), conditions with blackout risks or tremors.
- Substance Issues: Illegal drug use, alcohol misuse, or problematic prescription medication usage.
- Mental & Cognitive: Severe psychiatric conditions with recent episodes or impairments affecting decision-making.
Some cases can temporarily disqualify until medical documentation is provided (e.g., controlled blood pressure). Others, like untreated epilepsy or implanted defibrillators, are permanent disqualifications under FMCSA rules.
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