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 - Illinois

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Illinois DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator. This examination establishes that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of maneuvering large vehicles safely on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts the exam. Success in this exam awards the driver a DOT medical certificate, necessary to keep a valid CDL license as per FMCSA guidelines. If another DOT agency regulates you and you're unsure which DOT physical you require, call 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?

Review of health history and evaluation of medication
Eye test (corrective eyewear permitted; minimal criteria must be met)
Ear examination (forced whisper or hearing test)
Measurement of blood pressure and pulse
Physical inspection of body systems
Urine analysis (checking specific gravity, protein, and sugar)

In Illinois, after passing, the Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be issued for up to 24 months. Certain conditions may warrant a shorter certification or necessitate specialist documentation.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

A valid DOT medical certificate (card) is essential if you:

Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) class A, B, or C for interstate trade
Operate a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs GVWR in interstate trade
Transport over 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (not for hire)
Move hazardous goods needing placards as per DOT codes
Work with employers overseen by DOT bodies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical qualification is mandatory

This requirement applies in Illinois.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

State-issued photo ID
Corrective lenses or contact lenses & current prescription
List of current medications & their doses
Data from CPAP machine if applicable
Clearances from specialists (cardiology, sleep-related issues, diabetes, etc.)
Latest A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored regularly

Remember to bring these documents if you're taking the exam in Illinois.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

No Medical card can be granted
Temporary disqualification may follow
Advice to see your primary care provider for treatment
FMCSA exceptions might be available for specific health concerns
Employer will be informed
Next actions: tackle the medical problems and sit the test again

This applies to situations occurring in Illinois as well.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: If vision falls below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), can't distinguish traffic light colors, or if hearing a forced whisper at 5 feet is not possible.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled hypertension (180/110 mmHg or more), recent heart attack or stroke, severe angina without regulation, or an implanted defibrillator without clearance.
Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes with frequent hypo episodes or complications like neuropathy affecting safe driving.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Neglected obstructive sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness or severe lung conditions impairing oxygen intake.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or related disorders (unless exempted), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrollable tremors.
Substance Abuse: Ongoing illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescription medications impairing driving.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric disorders uncontrolled, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with recent episodes, or cognitive issues impairing judgment and response time.

Temporary versus Permanent Disqualification: Some conditions may temporarily disqualify you until medical clearance or documentation is provided (e.g., controlled blood pressure or diabetes management), whereas problems like untreated seizure conditions or implanted defibrillators are broadly permanently disqualifying per FMCSA codes.