DOT Physical Exams - Canton, MO
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSACanton, MO DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a thorough medical checkup mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This examination verifies that 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 exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), essential to maintain a valid CDL license under FMCSA guidelines. For assistance in determining which DOT physical applies to you, especially if regulated by a different DOT agency, call 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 of health records and medication use
- Vision check (corrective lenses possible; minimum standards must be met)
- Hearing test (using whisper or audiometry methods)
- Blood pressure and pulse measures
- Overall physical health examination (system review)
- Urinalysis (to check gravity, protein, glucose levels)
In Canton, WA, upon success, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) could be valid for up to 24 months. Some health issues might require shorter certification periods or additional specialist input.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A current DOT medical certificate (card) is required if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) - classes A, B, or C, for interstate activities
- Operate vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR in interstate commerce
- Transport over 8 paying or more than 15 non-paying passengers
- Carry hazardous substances that necessitate DOT warning placards
- Work for DOT-supervised companies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG needing DOT medical credentials, applicable in Canton, ME
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-Issued Picture ID
- Glasses/Contacts & Prescription
- Complete Medication List & Dosages
- CPAP Data (if used)
- Specialist Clearances (Cardiology, Sleep Apnea, Diabetes)
- Recent A1C/Blood Pressure Logs (if monitored)
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No medical card issuance
- Temporary disqualification status
- Suggestion to seek treatment from primary healthcare provider
- Possibility of obtaining FMCSA exemptions for specific medical issues
- Notification to employer
- Follow-up Steps (address the underlying health concerns and retake the exam)
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision less than 20/40 in each eye (with correction), trouble distinguishing traffic signal colors, or hearing loss that prevents recognizing a forced whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an implanted defibrillator without approval.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications (neuropathy, vision impairment) affecting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness, or severe respiratory diseases affecting oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or uncontrolled seizure disorders (unless exempted), conditions causing unexpected consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Use of illicit drugs, alcohol dependence, or misuse of medications impairing driving abilities.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe untreated psychiatric illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive impairments affecting judgment and response time.
Temporary issues may temporarily disqualify you until you provide the necessary medical clearance or documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure, diabetes management). Other conditions, such as untreated seizure disorders or implanted defibrillators, are usually considered permanently disqualifying according to FMCSA rules.
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