DOT Physical Exams - Andover, ME
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAAndover, ME DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A comprehensive medical evaluation known as a DOT physical is necessary for all commercial motor vehicle drivers, mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). This examination checks if professional drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of safely operating large vehicles on public roads.
Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing this examination allows drivers to obtain a DOT medical certificate, which is needed to keep a valid CDL license in accordance with FMCSA regulations. For guidance on the appropriate DOT physical, if regulated by another DOT agency, 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?
- Review of medical history and medication list
- Eye test with optional corrective lenses to meet minimum vision requirements
- Hearing test either through audiometry or forced whisper check
- Pulse rate and blood pressure assessment
- Physical evaluation of bodily systems
- Urine test for specific gravity, protein, and sugar
After passing, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) might be granted for a period of up to 24 months in Andover, SD. Certain conditions could necessitate a shorter certification period or further specialist evaluation.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
For Andover, CA, possession of a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is essential if:
- Holding a commercial driver's license (CDL) class A, B, or C for interstate trade
- Operating vehicles above 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate trade
- Carrying over 8 paying passengers or more than 15 non-paying passengers
- Moving hazardous materials needing placarding by DOT rules
- Employed under DOT agencies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where DOT medical qualification is necessary.
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 Andover, HI.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be issued
- Temporary disqualification may occur
- Referral for treatment to your main physician
- FMCSA exceptions for some medical conditions
- Employer notification
- Next steps include resolving medical concerns and reattempting the exam
If you're in Andover, CO, address these issues and pursue the necessary steps to regain eligibility and fulfill the requirements as indicated for successful qualification.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision under 20/40 in each eye (corrected), inability to identify signal colors, or hearing loss preventing comprehension of a forced whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension uncontrolled at ≥180/110 mmHg, recent cardiac events, or defibrillator implantation without specialist approval.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy and impaired vision affecting driving safety.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing significant daytime fatigue or severe pulmonary disease reducing oxygen saturation.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or disorders causing sudden unconsciousness, vertigo, or unregulated tremors unless exempted.
- Substance Abuse: Current illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescribed drugs impairing driving abilities.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious unmanaged psychiatric conditions or cognitive deficits affecting judgment and response velocity.
Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Certain issues may temporarily disqualify pending medical proof (e.g., controlled hypertension), while others like untreated seizures or defibrillator dependency generally lead to permanent disqualification per FMCSA terms.
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