DOT Physical Exams - Heron Lake, MN

Heron Lake, MN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a thorough health check mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle driver. This examination ensures that drivers possess the necessary physical, mental, and emotional health to operate large vehicles safely on public roadways. A certified medical examiner listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners conducts the DOT physical. Successful completion grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, essential for maintaining a valid CDL license as per FMCSA rules. For guidance on the required DOT physical, particularly if regulated by another 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?

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: Cannot see better than 20/40 in each eye (with correction), unable to identify traffic signal colors, or hearing loss hindering the perception of a whispered voice from 5 feet away.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Issues: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attacks or strokes, unstable angina, or an unapproved defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia, or its complications disrupting driving capabilities.
• Sleep & Breathing: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing fatigue or severe pulmonary illness limiting oxygen intake.
• Neurological Concerns: Epilepsy/seizures without exemption, or conditions leading to sudden unconsciousness, lightheadedness, or involuntary trembling.
• Substance Issues: Illegal drug usage, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescription drugs impairing driving ability.
• Mental & Cognitive Health: Serious psychiatric conditions (e.g., untreated schizophrenia, recent severe bipolar episodes) or cognitive decline which affects decision-making and reaction speed.

Certain conditions might temporarily disqualify until medical proof is presented (e.g., proper hypertension or diabetes management). Conditions like uncontrolled epilepsy or unrevised defibrillators are often seen as permanent disqualifications following FMCSA rules.