DOT Physical Exams - Karlstad, MN

Karlstad, MN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a thorough medical checkup mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This examination verifies that professional drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of safely operating large vehicles on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), essential to maintain a valid CDL license under FMCSA guidelines. For assistance in determining which DOT physical applies to you, especially if regulated by a different DOT agency, call 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: Failure to see 20/40 in both eyes (even with lenses), challenges with traffic signal recognition, or inability to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac events, unmanaged angina, or an implanted defibrillator without approval.
• Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic events or complications impacting driving safety.
• Sleep Apnea & Lung Problems: Unaddressed sleep apnea causing fatigue or severe respiratory issues hindering oxygen intake.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy (without exemption), conditions causing unanticipated consciousness loss, vertigo, or tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug use, dependency on alcohol, or misuse of prescriptions affecting driving ability.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Uncontrolled psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia or recent bipolar episodes) or cognitive issues impairing decision-making and response.

Various conditions might only temporarily disqualify you until obtaining medical documentation or proof, such as controlled hypertension. However, certain cases like untreated epilepsy or implanted defibrillators are viewed as permanent disqualifications by FMCSA standards.