DOT Physical Exams - Saltese, MT
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSASaltese, MT DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health check mandated
by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver. This examination checks if drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of handling large vehicles safely on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing the test grants a DOT medical certificate, necessary for maintaining a valid CDL license under FMCSA rules. If another DOT agency oversees your activities and you need help determining the required DOT physical, 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?
- Health history evaluation including medication assessment
- Eye examination for minimum vision standards with corrective lens allowance
- Hearing check through whisper test or audiology
- Monitoring of blood pressure and pulse
- Comprehensive physical systems exam
- Urine analysis for specific gravity, protein, and glucose
In Saltese, TN, upon successful exam completion, you could receive a Medical Examiner's Certificate valid for up to 24 months. Conditions could require shorter validity or specialist input.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
For Saltese, CA, possession of a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is essential if:
- Holding a commercial driver's license (CDL) class A, B, or C for interstate trade
- Operating vehicles above 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate trade
- Carrying over 8 paying passengers or more than 15 non-paying passengers
- Moving hazardous materials needing placarding by DOT rules
- Employed under DOT agencies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where DOT medical qualification is necessary.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- State-issued photo ID
- Eye-wear & related prescriptions
- Medication names & dosages list
- Data on CPAP use (if relevant)
- Specialist approval (for heart, apnea, diabetes issues, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure records if monitored
Ensure all documents are ready for your examination in Saltese, WA to avoid delays.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- In Saltese, TN, lack of a medical card issuance
- Faced with temporary exam disqualification
- Advised medical treatment via primary healthcare
- Possible FMCSA health exemptions
- Employer notified regarding outcomes
- Steps to proceed involve addressing health issues followed by exam retest
Saltese, TN applicants must address disqualifying health aspects proactively to regain qualification status.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity below 20/40 per eye (corrected), inability to recognize traffic light colors, or hearing loss hindering perception of a whispered voice at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Conditions: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, uncontrolled angina, or defibrillator implant without medical clearance.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic events or complications (such as neuropathy or poor eyesight) impacting safe driving ability.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Problems: Unaddressed obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime fatigue, or significant pulmonary disease impairing oxygen levels.
- Neurological Diseases: Epilepsy/seizure disorders (unless exempt), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss, balance issues, or involuntary movements.
- Substance Misuse: Current illicit drug usage, alcohol dependency, or prescription medication misuse that impairs driving.
- Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled psychiatric diseases (like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with recent incidents) or cognitive deterioration affecting judgment and response times.
Certain issues can cause temporary disqualification until medical clearance is provided (like managed blood pressure or diabetes). Others, such as untreated seizure disorders or defibrillator implants, are usually deemed permanently disqualifying per FMCSA standards.
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