DOT Physical Exams - Arthur, IA
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAArthur, IA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an extensive health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all operators of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). This evaluation ensures drivers possess the necessary physical, mental, and emotional stability to safely handle large vehicles on the roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) registered with the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), clearing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (also known as a DOT medical card), essential for retaining a valid CDL license as per FMCSA guidelines. For guidance on the required DOT physical if you fall under another DOT agency's jurisdiction, 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?
Vision Test
Urinalysis
Physical Examination
DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available
What is checked in a DOT Physical?
- Medical history and drug review
- Vision test (corrective lenses permissible; must meet basic criteria)
- Hearing test (whisper test or audiometry)
- Monitoring of blood pressure & pulse
- Comprehensive physical assessment
- Urine test (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
After clearing the exam, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be granted for up to two years. Specific health issues might warrant shorter certification terms or additional specialist documentation required in Arthur, NY.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
In Arthur, WA, possessing a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for cross-state trade
- Drive vehicles over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in cross-state trade
- Carry more than 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials needing DOT-regulated placarding
- Work under DOT agency regulations like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG requiring DOT medical credentials
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?
- 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) in Arthur, KS
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Fail to see 20/40 each eye (even with correction) or can't identify traffic signal colors; Hearing issues preventing a forced whisper at 5 ft.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: High BP (≥180/110), a recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an implanted defibrillator lacking medical clearance.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with complications like low blood sugar episodes, neuropathy, or visual impairment hampering safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory: Untreated sleep apnea causing day sleepiness or a severe lung disease.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy unless exempt, conditions leading to sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescriptions impairing driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive: Severe mental illnesses like unmanaged schizophrenia or bipolar, or cognitive decline affecting judgment and responses.
Issues may temporarily disqualify you until providing clearance (e.g., managed blood pressure). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are often permanently disqualifying under FMCSA standards.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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