DOT Physical Exams - South Eliot, ME
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSASouth Eliot, ME DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
The DOT physical examination is a thorough health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This examination makes sure that drivers are capable physically, mentally, and emotionally of handling large road vehicles. A certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry conducts the test. Successfully passing grants a DOT medical certificate essential for a CDL under FMCSA rules. For guidance on which specific DOT physical you need, contact 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 health history and medications
- Vision test (corrective lenses allowed, with standards to meet)
- Hearing check (using forced whisper or audiometer)
- Blood pressure and pulse check
- Full physical exam (system checks)
- Urinalysis (looking at specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Upon successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be valid for up to 24 months. Specific conditions could necessitate shorter certification or additional documentation from a specialist. South Eliot, KY
Who needs a DOT Physical?
Possession of a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Have a CDL class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. gross vehicle weight rating in interstate transit
- Transport 8+ paid passengers or 15+ unpaid passengers
- Convey hazardous materials requiring placarding by DOT
- Work for DOT-governed employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, needing medical qualification
This applies in South Eliot, SD too.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- Eyewear & prescription in South Eliot, AR
- Medications & dosages list
- CPAP usage data, if necessary
- Specialist clearances (heart health, sleep disorders, diabetes, etc.)
- Latest A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
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)
If you're in South Eliot, VT, make sure to address these issues promptly before attempting the exam again.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision weaker than 20/40 in each eye even with correction, inability to recognize traffic light colors, or hearing deficiency that affects detecting a forced whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, stroke, unaddressed angina, or a defibrillator implant without medical sign-off.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes accompanied by frequent hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy or sight impairment that interfere with driving safety.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing drowsiness during the day, or severe pulmonary conditions affecting proper oxygenation.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure conditions (unless exempt), disorders causing unexpected unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled movements.
- Substance Abuse: Current substance misuse, alcohol dependency, or use of prescriptions that reduce driving capability.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe, unmanaged psychiatric disorders (e.g., active schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive deficits that affect judgment and reflexes.
Some conditions might temporarily disqualify you until medical clearance or documentation is provided (e.g., regulated blood pressure, managed diabetes). Others, like untreated seizure disorders or implanted defibrillators, generally result in permanent disqualification as per FMCSA standards.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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