DOT Physical Exams - Franklin, KY
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAFranklin, KY DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a thorough health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for those driving commercial motor vehicles. This examination certifies that drivers are capable, both physically and mentally, for the operation of heavy vehicles on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry, conducts this evaluation. Success in the examination grants drivers a DOT medical card, essential for a valid CDL per FMCSA rules. If other DOT agency regulations apply to you and you need help understanding which DOT exam is necessary, 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 health history and evaluate medications
- Vision check (corrective eyewear permitted, standards in place)
- Hearing test (forced whisper or audiometric)
- Measure blood pressure and pulse
- Conduct full physical (systems overview)
- Urinalysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Completion may grant a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid for up to 24 months, although some conditions may demand shorter certification or specialist documentation in Franklin, AZ
Who needs a DOT Physical?
Holding a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is imperative if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle weighing over 10,001 lbs. gross vehicle weight rating in interstate commerce
- Transport more than 8 passengers for hire, or over 15 passengers not for hire
- Convey hazardous materials demanding placards under DOT rules
- Are employed by entities regulated under DOT agencies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical certification is necessary
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- Corrective eyewear & prescription
- List of current medications & dosages
- CPAP compliance data (if relevant)
- Specialist approvals (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C or blood pressure records if under monitoring
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No medical card granted
- Temporary Eligibility Suspension
- Referral to your primary physician for treatment
- FMCSA Officail Medical Condition Exemptions
- Informed Employer
- Next Actions (address medical issues, reattempt exam)
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: A vision weaker than 20/40 per eye (with correction), issues recognizing traffic signal colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: High blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac incident, stroke, severe angina, or an implanted defibrillator without clearance.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic episodes or complications (neuropathy, vision curses) affecting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Breathing Problems: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime somnolence, or serious lung disease hindering oxygen intake.
- Neurological Conditions: Seizures/epilepsy (unless exempt), disorders causing sudden mightiness, disorientation, or uncontrolled movements.
- Substance Issues: Ongoing use of illicit substances, alcohol dependency, or prescription drug misuse affecting driving abilities.
- Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric disorders that are uncontrolled (like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder episodes) or cognitive impairments hampering reaction and judgment.
Temporary vs. permanent qualification status can arise. Some conditions allow temporary disqualification till proper medical documentation is given, such as blood pressure control or diabetes management. Others, like untreated seizures or heart defibrillator implants, are generally deemed permanently disqualifying by FMCSA.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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