Can high blood pressure make you fail a DOT physical?

Yes. Drivers with blood pressure at or above 180/110 mmHg will fail the DOT physical. Lower levels of hypertension may result in shorter certification periods if under treatment.

Does diabetes disqualify you from a DOT physical?

Not always. Controlled diabetes with proper documentation may be allowed. Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications can cause disqualification until managed.

Will sleep apnea cause you to fail a DOT physical?

Untreated or uncontrolled sleep apnea that causes daytime drowsiness can disqualify a driver. However, drivers who are compliant with CPAP or other treatments may qualify with documentation.

What does the Maryland DOT physical include?

The DOT physical exam in Maryland typically includes a review of medical history and medications, vision and hearing tests, measurement of blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, urinalysis and a general physical exam by a certified medical examiner. Upon passing, you may receive a medical examiner’s certificate valid for up to 24 months.

Who in Maryland needs to get a DOT physical?

Any driver holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for interstate or intrastate commerce in Maryland, or operating a commercial motor vehicle regulated by the DOT, must have a valid medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner.

Where can I have the DOT physical done in Maryland?

Maryland drivers can schedule their DOT physical through Accredited Drug Testing’s network of certified examiners and collection sites across the state, ensuring compliance with both federal and Maryland state requirements.

What should I bring with me to the DOT physical in Maryland?

Bring a photo ID, your current medical certificate if applicable, list of medications and dosages, any specialist clearance letters (for conditions such as sleep apnea or cardiac issues) and glasses or contact lens prescription if used.

What happens if I don’t pass my Maryland DOT physical?

If you fail the exam, you will not receive the medical certificate and your driving privileges under the DOT‐regulated commercial vehicle operations may be suspended until you meet the qualifying medical requirements and are re-examined.

DOT Physical Exams - Maryland

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Maryland DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

DOT medical exams are thorough health evaluations mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle operator. These assessments ensure drivers are adequately fitâ€”physically, emotionally, and mentallyâ€”to drive large vehicles safely on the roads. A licensed medical professional from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners must carry out this exam. Upon passing, drivers obtain a DOT medical certificate, essential for keeping a CDL valid following FMCSA guidelines. For questions about which DOT exam is necessary for your specific DOT agency, 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?

Health History Review
Vision Test

Hearing Test
Urinalysis

Vital Signs
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 eyewear allowed; meet minimum requirements)
Hear evaluation (via forced whisper or audiometry)
Pulse rate and blood pressure check
Comprehensive physical examination
Urine analysis (checks for gravity, proteins, glucose)

Once you successfully complete the Maryland exam, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be valid for a period of up to two years. However, certain conditions may necessitate more frequent certification or additional specialist documentation.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

A valid DOT medical card is required in Maryland for:

Holders of a CDL (class A, B, or C) crossing state lines
Drivers of vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs GVWR in interstate business
Operators transporting over 8 hireable passengers or more than 15 without hire
Hauling hazardous materials needing placard under DOT regulations
Employees of DOT agency-regulated businesses, like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG needing medical eligibility

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Government-issued ID
Eyewear and its prescription
Medication list with doses
CPAP machine data, if used
Specialist approvals (cardiac issues, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
Recent A1C/blood pressure logs, if monitored

Ensure these items are prepared before your Maryland DOT examination to prevent potential delays or issues in the process.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

No issuance of Medical card
Disqualified temporarily
Doctorâ€™s referral for follow-up
FMCSA offers exemptions for specific health conditions
Employer and relevant parties notified
Steps to address health concerns, retake the exam and meet Maryland requirements

Understanding these elements will guide your actions following any disqualification or requirement for further medical evaluations.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Subpar vision (worse than 20/40 per eye) with corrective lenses, inability to distinguish traffic lights, or failed hearing tests (unable to hear a forced whisper from five feet).
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Poor management of hypertension (â‰¥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac events, stroke, unstable angina, or implanted defibrillator without approval.
Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or severe complications jeopardizing safe driving.
Respiratory Issues & Sleep Apnea: Untreated sleep apnea causing fatigue or severe respiratory conditions affecting oxygen levels.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizures (unless exempted), disorders causing unexpected fainting, dizziness, or uncontrollable tremors.
Substance Abuse: Use of banned substances, alcohol dependence, or prescription misuse impairing driving skills.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Issues: Serious unmanaged psychiatric disorders (schizophrenia, recent bipolar episodes) or cognitive deficits affecting judgment and response times.

Some conditions may temporarily disqualify you until resolved. Others, such as untreated epilepsy or defibrillators, often lead to permanent disqualification per FMCSA standards.

References:
- FMCSA Medical Examiner Physical Qualification Standards (Â§391.41)
- 49 CFR Part 391 - Qualification of Drivers
- Medical Examiner's Handbook
- FMCSA Driver Exemptions