DOT Physical Exams - Benton, KS
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSABenton, KS 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?
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 assessment
- Eye test (glasses or contacts permitted; minimal criteria apply)
- Hearing examination (forced whisper or audiogram)
- Monitoring blood pressure and heart rate
- Full body examination (systematic review)
- Urine test (checking specific gravity, proteins, sugars)
If passed, the Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) is valid up to 24 months; some health conditions could require shorter certification or specialist validation. Benton, NM can present unique challenges for drivers.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A current DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Possess a CDL- class A, B, or C for interstate work
- Operate vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR interstate
- Convey more than 8 fare-paying passengers or over 15 non-fare passengers
- Carry hazardous materials needing DOT placards
- Are employed by companies under DOT regulation, like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, requiring DOT medical approval in Benton, NY
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- Eyewear & prescription in Benton, AR
- Medications & dosages list
- CPAP usage data, if necessary
- Specialist clearances (heart health, sleep disorders, diabetes, etc.)
- Latest A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No medical certification issued
- Disqualification on a temporary basis
- Treatment referrals to primary care doctors
- FMCSA allowance for specific conditions
- Informing employer
- Steps forward include addressing health issues and retesting
Benton, NE's policies are enforced.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity worse than 20/40 in both eyes with correction or inability to see traffic colors; hearing loss preventing a whispered voice recognition at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, stroke, untreated angina, or defibrillator implant without approval.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic episodes or complications like neuropathy affecting driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing sleepiness during the day or severe respiratory disorder affecting oxygen supply.
- Neurological Disorders: Epileptic/seizure disorders unless exempt, or conditions triggering loss of consciousness, dizziness, or tremors.
- Substance Use: Current illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescribed drugs affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent symptoms) or cognitive deficiencies affecting response and decision-making.
Some medical conditions might temporarily disqualify until medical evaluations or documentation are provided, such as managed blood pressure or diabetes control; whereas conditions like untreated seizures or defibrillator implants often lead to a permanent disqualification under FMCSA guidelines.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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