DOT Physical Exams - Portage, IN
Locations, All Cities, All States
FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAPortage, IN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
The DOT physical examination is a thorough health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This examination makes sure that drivers are capable physically, mentally, and emotionally of handling large road vehicles. A certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry conducts the test. Successfully passing grants a DOT medical certificate essential for a CDL under FMCSA rules. For guidance on which specific DOT physical you need, 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?
- Health history review and medication assessment
- Vision screening (corrective lenses allowed; minimum standards apply)
- Hearing assessment (forced whisper test or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse rate
- Physical examination (systems review)
- Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Upon successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be issued for up to 24 months. Some conditions may require shorter certification or specialist documentation, especially in Portage, VT.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
To possess a valid DOT medical card, you must:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A,B, or C for interstate travel
- Operate vehicles over 10,001 lbs. in interstate commerce
- Transport either more than 8 hired passengers or over 15 non-hired passengers
- Carry hazardous materials necessitating DOT-required placarding
- Be employed by organizations under DOT regulatory entities, such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical qualification is mandated in Portage, MI
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 Portage, GA.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No issuance of Medical card
- Temporary disqualification from driving
- Recommendation for further treatment with your primary care provider
- Potential FMCSA exemptions for specific medical conditions
- Notification to employer regarding disqualification
- Next Steps: Address medical issues and retake the assessment
In Portage, AL, it is essential to address these issues promptly to resume professional driving.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity worse than 20/40 in either eye (even with glasses), difficulty identifying traffic lights, or inability to hear a whispered voice within 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Severe hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, unstable angina, or an unapproved defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Frequent hypoglycemic events or complications like neuropathy impacting driving safety from uncontrolled diabetes.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea resulting in daytime sleepiness or severe lung conditions affecting breathing.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizures (unless exempt), conditions causing sudden blackouts or involuntary tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current illegal drug use, alcohol abuse, or misuse of prescription drugs affecting motor skills.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe mental health issues (e.g., uncontrolled schizophrenia) or cognitive deficits harming decision-making skills.
Some conditions may temporarily prevent certification until resolved with documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure). Other issues, like unmanaged seizures, usually lead to permanent ineligibility under FMCSA norms.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers
