DOT Physical Exams - Amsterdam, NY

Amsterdam, NY 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?

DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

• Vision & Hearing: If vision is worse than 20/40 per eye (corrected) or unable to discern traffic lights; hearing cannot detect a forced whisper at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), a recent heart episode or stroke, uncontrolled angina, or having an unsanctioned defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Unregulated diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy or vision issues that hinder safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing drowsiness or severe lung disease impairing oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders (without exemptions), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss or uncontrolled tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Current use of illegal substances, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescription drugs that hinder driving abilities.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe uncontrolled mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar with recent episodes) or cognitive issues affecting reaction time and judgment.

Under FMCSA rules, some issues may result in temporary disqualification while addressing them with medical documentation (e.g., controlled hypertension). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are considered generally permanently disqualifying.