DOT Physical Exams - Dillon, MT
Locations, All Cities, All States
FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSADillon, MT DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a thorough medical assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMV). This examination ensures that those driving large vehicles on public routes are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing the exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), necessary for maintaining a valid CDL license according to FMCSA guidelines. If you're overseen by a different DOT agency and require help determining the specific DOT physical needed, 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?
- Health history and medication review
- Vision screening with corrective lenses allowed; standards must be met
- Hearing test via whisper or audiometry
- Blood pressure and pulse rate check
- Physical examination covering various systems
- Urinalysis for specific readings like gravity, protein, glucose
After successful evaluation in Dillon, OR, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) is issued, valid for up to 24 months, though certain health conditions might require more frequent renewals or specialist documentation.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
Holding a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is imperative if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle weighing over 10,001 lbs. gross vehicle weight rating in interstate commerce
- Transport more than 8 passengers for hire, or over 15 passengers not for hire
- Convey hazardous materials demanding placards under DOT rules
- Are employed by entities regulated under DOT agencies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical certification is necessary
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued identification with photo
- Spectacles/contact lenses and prescription
- Medication list with dosages
- CPAP usage records if relevant
- Specialist medical approvals (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent logs for A1C or blood pressure when monitored
Note: Dillon, OR requires these for a smooth process.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be issued
- Temporary disqualification
- Referral for treatment to your primary care doctor
- FMCSA exemptions for certain medical conditions
- Employer Notification
- Next Steps (address the medical issues and retake the exam)
Further clarification may be needed for state-specific regulations, especially in regions like Dillon, HI.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: If vision falls below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), can't distinguish traffic light colors, or if hearing a forced whisper at 5 feet is not possible.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled hypertension (180/110 mmHg or more), recent heart attack or stroke, severe angina without regulation, or an implanted defibrillator without clearance.
- Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes with frequent hypo episodes or complications like neuropathy affecting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Neglected obstructive sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness or severe lung conditions impairing oxygen intake.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or related disorders (unless exempted), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrollable tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Ongoing illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescription medications impairing driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric disorders uncontrolled, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with recent episodes, or cognitive issues impairing judgment and response time.
Temporary versus Permanent Disqualification: Some conditions may temporarily disqualify you until medical clearance or documentation is provided (e.g., controlled blood pressure or diabetes management), whereas problems like untreated seizure conditions or implanted defibrillators are broadly permanently disqualifying per FMCSA codes.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers
