DOT Physical Exams - Hematite, MO
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAHematite, MO 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?
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 history assessment and medication review
- Vision assessment (corrective lenses acceptable; minimum criteria apply)
- Hearing assessment (whisper test or audiometry)
- Blood pressure measurement and pulse check
- Physical exam (systematic review)
- Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, glucose levels)
On successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be issued for up to 24 months; some conditions may demand shorter certification or specialist verification, including in Hematite, GA.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
In Hematite, AL, a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is needed if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) class A, B, or C for interstate operations
- Drive a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate operations
- Transport more than 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials needing placarding under DOT rules
- Work for DOT agency-regulated employers, including FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical qualifications are necessary
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- Glasses/contact lenses & prescription
- List of medications & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Make sure you bring these important documents to your exam in Hematite, VT.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be issued
- Temporary disqualification notice
- Directed to consult your primary care provider
- Consider FMCSA exemptions for specific health issues
- Notification given to your employer
- Follow-up steps: address health concerns and schedule a retake of the exam
This process is in effect in Hematite, ME.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Fail to see 20/40 each eye (even with correction) or can't identify traffic signal colors; Hearing issues preventing a forced whisper at 5 ft.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: High BP (≥180/110), a recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an implanted defibrillator lacking medical clearance.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with complications like low blood sugar episodes, neuropathy, or visual impairment hampering safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory: Untreated sleep apnea causing day sleepiness or a severe lung disease.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy unless exempt, conditions leading to sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescriptions impairing driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive: Severe mental illnesses like unmanaged schizophrenia or bipolar, or cognitive decline affecting judgment and responses.
Issues may temporarily disqualify you until providing clearance (e.g., managed blood pressure). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are often permanently disqualifying under FMCSA standards.
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