DOT Physical Exams - Forest, MS

Forest, MS DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A comprehensive medical evaluation known as a DOT physical is necessary for all commercial motor vehicle drivers, mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). This examination checks if 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 examination allows drivers to obtain a DOT medical certificate, which is needed to keep a valid CDL license in accordance with FMCSA regulations. For guidance on the appropriate DOT physical, if regulated by another DOT agency, reach out to 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: Suffering from vision loose with correction worse than 20/40 in each eye, inability to identify traffic light colors, or hearing loss preventing the detection of a whispered voice from 5 feet away.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent cardiac arrest, stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or a heart implantable defibrillator lacking clearance.
• Diabetes: Non-managed diabetes known for large low-blood-sugar episodes or issues like vision problems that hinder driving safely.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated apnea causing daytime drowsiness, or serious lung disorder affecting oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epileptic disorders, conditions causing sudden blackout, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking, barring exemptions.
• Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or improper prescription medicine use negatively impacting driving skills.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged mental disorders or cognitive dysfunction impairing quick thinking/reaction time.

Some medical issues can temporarily disqualify you until medical proof or documentation is given, like controlled blood pressure or managed diabetes. Some conditions are usually deemed permanently disqualifying under FMCSA rules, like untreated seizure issues or heart defibrillators.