DOT Physical Exams - Conway, NH
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAConway, NH DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a thorough medical check mandated by the Department of Transportation for commercial motor vehicle operators. This examination ascertains the driver's ability to handle large vehicles safely on public highways, ensuring they are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally. Conducted by certified medical examiners listed on the National Registry, passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, vital for a CDL under FMCSA rules. For DOT agency-specific exam needs, 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 health history and medications
- Vision test (corrective lenses accepted, minimum standards needed)
- Hearing evaluation (forced whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse examination
- Comprehensive physical checkup (systems review)
- Urinalysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose)
After passing, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) might be valid for up to 24 months; however, specific conditions could demand more frequent certifications or expert notes. This applies in Conway, ME.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You must prove an active DOT medical certificate (card) in cases like these:
- Ownership of a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for crossing state lines
- Piloting any vehicle beyond 10,001 pounds GVWR during interstate duties
- Conveying more than 8 passengers (paid) or upward of 15 (non-paid)
- Transporting hazardous substances needing DOT sign off
- Employment under DOT agency rules like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG in Conway, NH requesting DOT health competency
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 will be issued
- Temporary disqualification applies
- Directed treatment with your general practitioner
- FMCSA exceptions for particular medical concerns
- Informing the employer
- Follow-up actions involve tackling health issues and re-attempting the examination
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to see traffic signal colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or presence of an implanted defibrillator lacking approval.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels with episodes of hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy that hinder safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness, or severe lung issues compromising oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epileptic conditions or other ailments causing unexpected collapses, dizziness, or uncontrollable tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of medication affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia), or cognitive problems affecting decision-making and reaction speed.
Disqualifications can be temporary until medical clearance is obtained (e.g., regulated blood pressure), while conditions like untreated epilepsy may lead to permanent disqualification per FMCSA standards.
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