DOT Physical Exams - Lakewood, IL
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSALakewood, IL DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a thorough medical assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMV). This examination ensures that those driving large vehicles on public routes are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing the exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), necessary for maintaining a valid CDL license according to FMCSA guidelines. If you're overseen by a different DOT agency and require help determining the specific DOT physical needed, contact 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?
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 medication adjustment
- Vision exam (correction permitted, minimum set)
- Hearing test (forced whisper or audiometry possible)
- Check blood pressure and pulse
- Overall bodily assessment (comprehensive system review)
- Basic urinalysis (includes tests for specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Success in these can get you a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid up to two years. Some conditions in Lakewood, NH could mean less time certified or need specialist's records for a shorter timeframe.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You need a valid DOT medical card if you:
- Hold an Lakewood, IN CDL for interstate commerce (class A, B, or C)
- Operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Transport more than 8 passengers (for hire) or 15+ passengers (not for hire)
- Carry hazardous materials necessitating DOT placarding
- Work for DOT-regulated employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, USCG, where medical qualification is mandatory
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo
- Glasses/contacts & prescription
- List of medications & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Adherence to Lakewood, NV's specific requirements is also essential.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be issued
- Temporary disqualification
- Referral for treatment to your primary care doctor
- FMCSA exemptions for certain medical conditions
- Employer Notification
- Next Steps (address the medical issues and retake the exam)
These steps are critical, particularly if you're operating in Lakewood, PA. Follow the guidance to regain certification.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision not meeting 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), failing to identify traffic colors, or hearing deficiently.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent cardiac events, or certain heart devices.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes causing dangerous conditions or nerve damage interfering with driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory: Untreated apnea causing sleepiness or serious lung conditions.
- Neurological: Epilepsy or conditions causing blackouts.
- Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use or unsafe prescription medication use.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive: Severe mental illness or cognitive issues affecting judgment.
Sometimes, such conditions may only result in temporary disqualification while waiting for medical documentation like blood pressure control.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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