DOT Physical Exams - Folsom, LA
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAFolsom, LA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
The Department of Transportation mandates a thorough medical assessment for all commercial vehicle drivers. This examination verifies that drivers are capable of handling large vehicles safely, both physically and mentally, on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner found on the National Registry, passing this exam grants a DOT medical certificate, required for a valid CDL under FMCSA rules. Call us at 800-221-4291 for assistance determining the necessary DOT physical for your agency.
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)
Upon completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may last up to 24 months. Some conditions may need shorter certification or specialist input. This applies for drivers in Folsom, IA.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You must hold a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Have a commercial driver's license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Drive a vehicle weighing over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Transport over 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Move hazardous materials needing placarding as per DOT regulations
- Work for DOT-regulated employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG needing DOT medical qualification in Folsom, AR
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- State-issued photo ID
- Eye-wear & related prescriptions
- Medication names & dosages list
- Data on CPAP use (if relevant)
- Specialist approval (for heart, apnea, diabetes issues, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure records if monitored
Ensure all documents are ready for your examination in Folsom, WA to avoid delays.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- Denial of the Medical card
- Temporary ineligibility
- Referral to your main healthcare provider for further treatment
- FMCSA waivers for specific medical conditions
- Notification to your employer
- Further actions include addressing health issues and retrying the exam
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Failing to meet vision standards of 20/40 per eye, color vision issues, or inability to hear a forced wisper five feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled blood pressure (at least 180/110 mmHg), any recent cardiac events, or an implanted defibrillator lacking clearance.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or difficulties such as neuropathy affecting driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Daytime sleepiness from untreated apnea or severe pulmonary dysfunction.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy, loss of consciousness conditions or severe tremors without exemption.
- Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescriptions affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Intense psychiatric disorders such as unmanaged bipolar disorder impairing judgment.
Certain conditions cause temporary disqualification until medical clearance is proven (e.g., stable blood pressure). Others, like seizure disorders with no treatment or implanted defibrillators, are permanent disqualifications under FMCSA standards.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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