Can high blood pressure make you fail a DOT physical?

Yes. Drivers with blood pressure at or above 180/110 mmHg will fail the DOT physical. Lower levels of hypertension may result in shorter certification periods if under treatment.

Does diabetes disqualify you from a DOT physical?

Not always. Controlled diabetes with proper documentation may be allowed. Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications can cause disqualification until managed.

Will sleep apnea cause you to fail a DOT physical?

Untreated or uncontrolled sleep apnea that causes daytime drowsiness can disqualify a driver. However, drivers who are compliant with CPAP or other treatments may qualify with documentation.

DOT Physical Exams - Missouri

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Missouri DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a detailed health check mandated by the Department of Transportation for all commercial drivers. This examination confirms that they are physically, mentally, and emotionally equipped for safe operation of large trucks and buses. A certified medical examiner from the NRCME conducts the examination. Successfully passing grants a DOT medical certificate, essential for retaining a CDL under FMCSA rules. For guidance on specific DOT physical requirements, 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?

Health History Review
Vision Test

Hearing Test
Urinalysis

Vital Signs
Physical Examination

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What is checked in a DOT Physical?

Review of medical history and medications
Vision test (corrective glasses allowed; minimum criteria must be met)
Hearing checkup (either forced whisper or audiogram)
Measuring blood pressure and pulse
General physical check (review of body systems)
Urine test (testing for specific gravity, protein, sugar)

Upon completing these tests successfully, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) could be valid for up to 24 months. Some cases may demand shorter certification timeframes or additional specialist approvals in Missouri.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

A current DOT medical certificate (card) is essential if you:

Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) of class A,B, or C for interstate business
Operate a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
Carry more than 8 for-hire passengers or over 15 non-hire passengers
Transport hazardous materials needing placarding under DOT norms
Are employed by DOT-regulated entities like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where medical qualification under DOT is necessary

Ensure fulfillment of these standards in Missouri.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

State-issued photo ID
Corrective lenses and updated prescription
Medication details & dosages
CPAP utilization records if relevant
Expert clearances (heart, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
Recent A1C or blood pressure readings if tracked

Fulfill these requirements prior to your visit in Missouri to facilitate the process and secure proper certification as needed for your CDL.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

Issuance of Medical card denied
Imposed temporary disqualification
Directed to primary care doctor for treatment
Seek FMCSA exemptions for specific health issues
Notification to employer required
Plan next actions (tackle medical concerns and retake the test)

Ensure compliance with Missouri regulations and guidelines, and prepare for potential reevaluation as necessitated.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Inadequate vision (worse than 20/40), difficulty recognizing traffic signal colors, or significant hearing loss (can't hear a whispered voice at 5 feet).
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Poorly controlled high blood pressure (â‰¥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac events, or defibrillator without approval.
Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes with frequent low sugar episodes or complications that hinder driving.
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing sleepiness, or severe lung disease affecting breathing.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizures unless exempt, conditions causing unplanned unconsciousness, or tremors.
Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or medication misuse impairing driving.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled mental illnesses or cognitive decline affecting decision-making and reflexes.

Certain conditions might lead to temporary disqualification needing medical clearance to resume driving. Others, like untreated seizure disorders, are usually deemed permanently disqualifying under FMCSA policy.