DOT Physical Exams - Calhoun, MO
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSACalhoun, MO DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
DOT physicals are thorough medical exams mandated by the Department of Transportation for commercial motor vehicle drivers. They ensure that drivers are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to handle large vehicles on the roads. Certified medical examiners listed on the National Registry conduct these exams. Successful candidates earn a DOT medical certificate to keep a CDL license valid, as required by FMCSA. For help with 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?
Vision Test
Urinalysis
Physical Examination
DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available
What is checked in a DOT Physical?
- Review health history and evaluate medications
- Vision check (corrective eyewear permitted, standards in place)
- Hearing test (forced whisper or audiometric)
- Measure blood pressure and pulse
- Conduct full physical (systems overview)
- Urinalysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Completion may grant a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid for up to 24 months, although some conditions may demand shorter certification or specialist documentation in Calhoun, AZ
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A valid DOT medical card is necessary if you:
- Hold a CDL-class A, B, or C for interstate trade
- Operate vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR across state lines
- Carry more than 8 passengers for pay or over 15 passengers unpaid
- Transport hazardous goods needing DOT permits
- Are employed by entities overseen by DOT divisions like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG requiring DOT medical eligibility.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Official photo ID
- Corrective lenses/glasses & prescription
- Medication list & dosages
- Data on CPAP usage (if required)
- Expert clearances (heart, apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Ensure to have this in Calhoun, VA.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card issuance
- Temporary disqualification indicated
- Referral to primary healthcare for treatment
- Eligibility for FMCSA condition-specific exemptions
- Employer must be notified
- Follow-up actions: Resolve health concerns and reattempt the exam
These protocols apply in Calhoun, OR too.
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.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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