DOT Physical Exams - Columbia, MS

Columbia, MS DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. It confirms that professional drivers possess the physical, mental, and emotional fitness necessary to operate large vehicles safely on public highways. 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 for retaining a valid CDL license under FMCSA rules. If adherence to another DOT agency is required, and you need guidance on the appropriate DOT physical, 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: Inability to achieve 20/40 vision in each eye even with correction, trouble distinguishing traffic signal colors, or hearing issues affecting a forced whisper test at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Blood pressure above 180/110 mmHg, recent heart attack or stroke, unchecked angina, or an implanted defibrillator lacking medical clearance.
• Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes causing frequent hypoglycemia or issues like neuropathy and impaired vision affecting safe vehicle operation.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Problems: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness, or severe respiratory disease impacting oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizures without exemption, conditions resulting in unpredictable unconsciousness, dizziness, or tremors not under control.
• Substance Use: Use of illicit substances, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescribed medications affecting driving abilities.
• Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Severe and unstable mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes, or cognitive issues impacting decision-making and reaction times.

Temporary or permanent disqualification applies depending on the medical issue. Conditions such as seizure disorders without treatment or implanted defibrillators are typically deemed permanent disqualifications per FMCSA standards.