DOT Physical Exams - Tatum, NM
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSATatum, NM 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?
- 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 Tatum, GA.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
For Tatum, 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?
- Government-issued photo
- Glasses/contacts & prescription
- List of medications & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Ensure all required documents are up-to-date, especially when operating outside your home state, like Tatum, HI.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card issued in Tatum, IN
- Temporary disqualification
- Referral to primary care physician for treatment
- FMCSA exemptions exist for some conditions
- Notification of employer
- Address medical issues and retake the exam in Tatum, IN to remain compliant.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision worse than 20/40 in each eye (with correction), inability to distinguish traffic signal colors, or hearing loss that prevents hearing a forced whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an implanted defibrillator without clearance.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent low blood sugar episodes or complications (neuropathy, vision impairment) that interfere with safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime drowsiness, or severe lung disease impairing oxygenation.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders (unless exempted), conditions causing sudden loss of consciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current use of illegal drugs, alcohol dependence, or misuse of prescription medications that impair driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled psychiatric illness (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive impairment affecting judgment and reaction time.
Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some issues may only temporarily disqualify you until you provide medical clearance or documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure, diabetes management). Others, such as untreated seizure disorders or implanted defibrillators, are generally considered permanently disqualifying under FMCSA rules.
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