DOT Physical Exams - Herkimer, KS
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAHerkimer, KS DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a thorough health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This examination verifies that drivers possess the physical, mental, and emotional capacity to safely maneuver large vehicles on public routes. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing the exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, essential for maintaining a valid CDL under FMCSA guidelines. For guidance on the specific DOT physical needed if overseen by a different DOT agency, 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 or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse rate
- Physical examination (systems review)
- Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
In the state of Herkimer, CO, upon successfully finishing these steps, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) could be valid for up to 24 months, subject to specific conditions needing shorter certification or specialist's approval.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You must possess a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for cross-state commerce
- Operate a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR across state lines
- Carry more than 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials requiring DOT-compliant placards
- Work in roles governed by DOT authorities such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG mandating DOT medical qualification, inclusive of Herkimer, GA.
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
Ensure all required documents are up-to-date, especially when operating outside your home state, like Herkimer, HI.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No medical card granted
- Get temporarily disqualified
- Be referred for treatment by your main healthcare provider
- Seek FMCSA specific condition exemptions
- Employers receive notifications
- Address health concern and re-attempt examination as next steps in Herkimer, NH
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision below 20/40 in each eye (with correction), inability to differentiate signal colors, or hearing loss inhibiting recognition of a whispered message at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or cardiac devices requiring special permission.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes causing hypoglycemic episodes or complications (like neuropathy) impairing safe vehicle operation.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing sleepiness, or serious lung conditions affecting oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Conditions like epilepsy or seizure disorders (excluding exemptions) that may lead to loss of consciousness.
- Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of medications impacting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe mental health issues unmanaged by medication or cognitive defects impacting safety decisions.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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