DOT Physical Exams - Prairie, MS
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAPrairie, MS DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
DOT physicals are thorough health evaluations mandated by the Department of Transportation for CMV drivers. These evaluations verify that drivers are capable of safely operating large vehicles on public roads. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, performs this exam. Passing it earns a DOT medical certificate, needed to keep a valid CDL license under FMCSA rules. For guidance on your specific DOT physical, call 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?
Vision Test
Urinalysis
Physical Examination
DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available
What is checked in a DOT Physical?
- Health assessment review and medication evaluation
- Vision check (corrective eyewear permissible; basic standards applicable)
- Hearing test (whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse tracking
- Physical check (system evaluation)
- Urine test (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
In Prairie, NC, once completed successfully, the Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be valid for 24 months. Some cases may warrant shorter validity or specialist references.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A current DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Possess a CDL- class A, B, or C for interstate work
- Operate vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR interstate
- Convey more than 8 fare-paying passengers or over 15 non-fare passengers
- Carry hazardous materials needing DOT placards
- Are employed by companies under DOT regulation, like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, requiring DOT medical approval in Prairie, NY
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo
- Glasses/contacts & prescription
- List of medications & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Adherence to Prairie, NV's specific requirements is also essential.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No issuance of a Medical card
- Temporary ban from driving
- Referral for medical follow-up with your regular doctor
- FMCSA allowances for specific health conditions
- Notification sent to employer
- Proceed with resolving health issues and retake the exam
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.
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