DOT Physical Exams - Harwood Heights, IL

Harwood Heights, IL DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a thorough medical checkup mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This examination verifies that professional drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of safely operating large vehicles on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), essential to maintain a valid CDL license under FMCSA guidelines. For assistance in determining which DOT physical applies to you, especially if regulated by a different DOT agency, 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?

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

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

• Vision & Hearing: Vision poorer than 20/40 in either eye with corrective lenses or inability to discern traffic signal colors; hearing loss preventing the perception of a forced whisper at five feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unchecked hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart incidents, stroke, ongoing angina, or lack of clearance for an implanted defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes causing frequent low blood sugar episodes or complications like neuropathy or impaired vision that hinder driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime fatigue, or severe lung condition affecting oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Seizure disorders unless exempted, any condition leading to sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking.
• Substance Abuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescriptions that affect driving capability.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe, unmanaged psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with recent incidents, or cognitive issues impairing judgment and response time.

Some conditions might temporarily disqualify you until medical clearance is provided, such as controlled hypertension or diabetes management. In contrast, disorders like seizures or implanted defibrillators are often deemed permanently disqualifying under FMCSA protocols.