DOT Physical Exams - Garland, KS
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAGarland, KS DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A comprehensive medical evaluation known as a DOT physical is necessary for all commercial motor vehicle drivers, mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). This examination checks if 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 examination allows drivers to obtain a DOT medical certificate, which is needed to keep a valid CDL license in accordance with FMCSA regulations. For guidance on the appropriate DOT physical, if regulated by another DOT agency, reach out to 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 health history and medication evaluation
- Vision exam (corrective lenses permitted; must meet minimum criteria)
- Hearing test (forced whisper method or audiometry)
- Blood pressure measurement and heart rate check
- General physical check-up (systemic evaluation)
- Urine analysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose)
After successfully completing, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be provided for up to 24 months, though certain health conditions might necessitate shorter certification or documentation from specialists. In Garland, UT, ensure compliance with any additional local requirements.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You need a valid DOT medical card if you:
- Hold an Garland, 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 identification
- Corrective eyewear & prescription if applicable
- List detailing medications & their dosages
- Record of CPAP use where necessary
- Specialist clearances for conditions like cardiology, apnea, or diabetes
- Recent health logs on A1C or blood pressure if monitoring is active
Ensure all requirements are met when attending your exam in Garland, TN for accuracy and potential certification validity.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be issued
- Temporary barring period
- Referred for treatment to your main healthcare provider
- FMCSA exemptions for specific medical concerns
- Employer Notification of the situation
- Next Steps: Address medical problems and retake the examination
In Garland, LA, resolving the medical issues is crucial for retaking the exam and securing your medical card.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision less than 20/40 in each eye (with correction), trouble distinguishing traffic signal colors, or hearing loss that prevents recognizing a forced whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an implanted defibrillator without approval.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications (neuropathy, vision impairment) affecting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness, or severe respiratory diseases affecting oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or uncontrolled seizure disorders (unless exempted), conditions causing unexpected consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Use of illicit drugs, alcohol dependence, or misuse of medications impairing driving abilities.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe untreated psychiatric illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive impairments affecting judgment and response time.
Temporary issues may temporarily disqualify you until you provide the necessary medical clearance or documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure, diabetes management). Other conditions, such as untreated seizure disorders or implanted defibrillators, are usually considered permanently disqualifying according to FMCSA rules.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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