DOT Physical Exams - La Prairie, MN

La Prairie, MN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A comprehensive health exam mandated by the Department of Transportation is essential for every commercial motor vehicle operator. This assessment verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of handling large trucks or buses on highways. Conducted by a medical examiner certified and listed on the NRCME, passing this exam awards a DOT medical certificate. For DOT agency queries on required exams, 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: Vision worse than 20/40 per eye (with glasses), inability to see traffic light colors, or hearing loss preventing detection of a whisper at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or an unapproved defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications (nerve damage, vision issues) disrupting safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness, or severe lung disease impairing breathing.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizures (unless exempted), conditions causing sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrollable shakes.
• Substance Abuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescription drugs impairing driving.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unchecked mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive decline affecting decision-making and response time.

Issues may temporarily disqualify you until you provide clearance or documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure, diabetes management), while others like untreated seizures or unauthorized defibrillators are typically considered permanent disqualifiers by FMCSA.