DOT Physical Exams - Knifley, KY
Locations, All Cities, All States
FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAKnifley, KY DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a thorough health examination mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). This checkup is crucial to confirm that drivers are in the right physical, mental, and emotional condition to safely maneuver large vehicles on public streets. A certified medical examiner (CME) enlisted on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conducts the DOT physical. Successfully passing the physical allows drivers to obtain a DOT medical certificate (also recognized as a DOT medical card), which is necessary for maintaining a current CDL under FMCSA guidelines. If you're governed by a different DOT agency and require help identifying the necessary DOT physical, 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?
- Health history check and drug assessment
- Vision test (corrective glasses allowed; minimum criteria apply)
- Hearing test (forced whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and heart rate
- Physical exam (overall health overview)
- Urinalysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose)
In Knifley, LA, upon successful completion of these procedures, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) might be valid for up to 24 months. Some conditions could require shorter certificates or specialist verifications
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A valid DOT medical card is required in Knifley, MD for:
- Holders of a CDL (class A, B, or C) crossing state lines
- Drivers of vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs GVWR in interstate business
- Operators transporting over 8 hireable passengers or more than 15 without hire
- Hauling hazardous materials needing placard under DOT regulations
- Employees of DOT agency-regulated businesses, like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG needing medical eligibility
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued ID
- Eyewear and its prescription
- Medication list with doses
- CPAP machine data, if used
- Specialist approvals (cardiac issues, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs, if monitored
Ensure these items are prepared before your Knifley, MD DOT examination to prevent potential delays or issues in the process.
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)
Drivers in Knifley, WY should take note of these steps in the event of a failed exam.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Less than 20/40 vision in both eyes, inability to distinguish traffic light colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension uncontrolled (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, uncontrolled angina, stroke, or an uncleared defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes resulting in low blood sugar episodes frequently or complications like neuropathy or impaired vision that hinder safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Conditions: Untreated sleep apnea causing drowsiness during the day or severe lung conditions obstructing oxygenation.
- Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy or seizure disorders (unless exempt), or conditions leading to unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking.
- Substance Misuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or abuse of prescription drugs impacting driving.
- Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled psychiatric conditions or cognitive impairments affecting judgment or reaction time.
Some matters might cause a temporary disqualification until medical documentation is supplied (controlled blood pressure, diabetes management). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers