DOT Physical Exams - Chatham, MA
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAChatham, MA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
DOT physical exams are thorough medical checks mandated by the Department of Transportation for drivers of commercial vehicles. These exams are vital to confirm drivers have the physical, mental, and emotional ability to drive on public roads safely. A certified medical examiner (CME) on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conducts the test. A passing result earns a DOT Medical Certificate, required for holding a CDL under FMCSA rules. For inquiries about specific DOT exams, call 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?
- Health assessment review and medication evaluation
- Vision check (corrective eyewear permissible; basic standards applicable)
- Hearing test (whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse tracking
- Physical check (system evaluation)
- Urine test (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
In Chatham, NC, once completed successfully, the Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be valid for 24 months. Some cases may warrant shorter validity or specialist references.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
In Chatham, WA, possessing a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for cross-state trade
- Drive vehicles over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in cross-state trade
- Carry more than 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials needing DOT-regulated placarding
- Work under DOT agency regulations like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG requiring DOT medical credentials
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 Chatham, HI.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No medical certification issued
- Disqualification on a temporary basis
- Treatment referrals to primary care doctors
- FMCSA allowance for specific conditions
- Informing employer
- Steps forward include addressing health issues and retesting
Chatham, NE's policies are enforced.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision not meeting 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), failing to identify traffic colors, or hearing deficiently.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent cardiac events, or certain heart devices.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes causing dangerous conditions or nerve damage interfering with driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory: Untreated apnea causing sleepiness or serious lung conditions.
- Neurological: Epilepsy or conditions causing blackouts.
- Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use or unsafe prescription medication use.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive: Severe mental illness or cognitive issues affecting judgment.
Sometimes, such conditions may only result in temporary disqualification while waiting for medical documentation like blood pressure control.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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