DOT Physical Exams - Wells, ME

Wells, ME 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?

DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

• Vision & Hearing: A vision weaker than 20/40 per eye (with correction), issues recognizing traffic signal colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: High blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac incident, stroke, severe angina, or an implanted defibrillator without clearance.
• Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic episodes or complications (neuropathy, vision curses) affecting safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Breathing Problems: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime somnolence, or serious lung disease hindering oxygen intake.
• Neurological Conditions: Seizures/epilepsy (unless exempt), disorders causing sudden mightiness, disorientation, or uncontrolled movements.
• Substance Issues: Ongoing use of illicit substances, alcohol dependency, or prescription drug misuse affecting driving abilities.
• Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric disorders that are uncontrolled (like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder episodes) or cognitive impairments hampering reaction and judgment.

Temporary vs. permanent qualification status can arise. Some conditions allow temporary disqualification till proper medical documentation is given, such as blood pressure control or diabetes management. Others, like untreated seizures or heart defibrillator implants, are generally deemed permanently disqualifying by FMCSA.