DOT Physical Exams - Oxford, LA
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAOxford, LA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an in-depth health check mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial drivers. This assessment ensures that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of managing large vehicles on public roads. A certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the NRCME conducts the exam. Passing results in obtaining a DOT medical card, essential for maintaining a valid CDL license under FMCSA regulations. Call us at 800-221-4291 if another DOT agency regulates you and you need guidance on the required exam.
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 Oxford, MN, upon successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be issued for up to 24 months. Some conditions may require shorter certification or specialist documentation
Who needs a DOT Physical?
To possess a valid DOT medical card, you must:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A,B, or C for interstate travel
- Operate vehicles over 10,001 lbs. in interstate commerce
- Transport either more than 8 hired passengers or over 15 non-hired passengers
- Carry hazardous materials necessitating DOT-required placarding
- Be employed by organizations under DOT regulatory entities, such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical qualification is mandated in Oxford, MI
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
Make sure to have these documents ready, especially in Oxford, PA, to ensure smooth processing during your medical exam.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card issued
- Temporary disqualification
- Referral for treatment to your primary care doctor
- FMCSA exemptions for certain medical conditions
- Employer Notification
- Next Steps (address medical issues & retake the exam)
These procedures apply for medical exams in Oxford, IA.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to recognize traffic colors, or hearing loss that makes it hard to discern a whispered sound at five feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart events, unregulated angina, or a non-cleared implanted defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Unregulated diabetes causing frequent low sugar levels or complications (e.g., neuropathy) impacting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Unmanaged sleep apnea causing drowsiness, or severe respiratory diseases hindering proper oxygenation.
- Neurological Disorders: Epileptic conditions (unless exempted) or illnesses causing loss of consciousness, dizziness, or intense tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current use of illicit drugs, habitual alcohol misuse, or prescription medication misuse impairing one's driving capabilities.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Significant unmanaged psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia) or cognitive dysfunction affecting decision-making or reaction speeds.
Some circumstances may temporarily disqualify you until you show the required medical documentation (e.g., managed diabetes). Issues like untreated seizure disorders or non-cleared defibrillators are typically seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA norms.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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