DOT Physical Exams - Phoenicia, NY

Phoenicia, NY DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an all-encompassing medical check mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver. This assessment is crucial to verify that professional drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared to operate large vehicles safely on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (also known as a DOT medical card), required to keep a valid CDL license in accordance with FMCSA regulations. If another DOT agency regulates you and you need help finding out which DOT physical you require, please 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: Cannot see better than 20/40 in each eye (with correction), unable to identify traffic signal colors, or hearing loss hindering the perception of a whispered voice from 5 feet away.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Issues: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attacks or strokes, unstable angina, or an unapproved defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia, or its complications disrupting driving capabilities.
• Sleep & Breathing: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing fatigue or severe pulmonary illness limiting oxygen intake.
• Neurological Concerns: Epilepsy/seizures without exemption, or conditions leading to sudden unconsciousness, lightheadedness, or involuntary trembling.
• Substance Issues: Illegal drug usage, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescription drugs impairing driving ability.
• Mental & Cognitive Health: Serious psychiatric conditions (e.g., untreated schizophrenia, recent severe bipolar episodes) or cognitive decline which affects decision-making and reaction speed.

Certain conditions might temporarily disqualify until medical proof is presented (e.g., proper hypertension or diabetes management). Conditions like uncontrolled epilepsy or unrevised defibrillators are often seen as permanent disqualifications following FMCSA rules.