DOT Physical Exams - Bethlehem, NC
Locations, All Cities, All States
FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSABethlehem, NC DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
DOT Physical: A thorough checkup mandated by DOT for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This evaluation confirms that drivers possess the physical, mental, and emotional capability to handle large vehicles on public roads safely. A certified medical examiner from the NRCME conducts the exam. Upon clearing it, drivers obtain a DOT medical certificate, essential for maintaining a CDL license as per FMCSA norms. For assistance on specific DOT physical queries, contact 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?
- Medical history and drug review
- Vision test (corrective lenses permissible; must meet basic criteria)
- Hearing test (whisper test or audiometry)
- Monitoring of blood pressure & pulse
- Comprehensive physical assessment
- Urine test (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
After clearing the exam, a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) can be granted for up to two years. Specific health issues might warrant shorter certification terms or additional specialist documentation required in Bethlehem, NY.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
Possession of a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is necessary if you:
- Have a CDL class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. gross vehicle weight rating in interstate transit
- Transport 8+ paid passengers or 15+ unpaid passengers
- Convey hazardous materials requiring placarding by DOT
- Work for DOT-governed employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, needing medical qualification
This applies in Bethlehem, SD too.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government ID with photo
- Corrective eyewear and prescriptions
- Medication list with dosages
- CPAP data usage (if applicable)
- Specialist approvals like cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes
- Recent A1C or blood pressure logs if watched
Remember to incorporate Bethlehem, MA in your preparations.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card issuance
- Temporary disqualification indicated
- Referral to primary healthcare for treatment
- Eligibility for FMCSA condition-specific exemptions
- Employer must be notified
- Follow-up actions: Resolve health concerns and reattempt the exam
These protocols apply in Bethlehem, OR too.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision not meeting 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), failing to identify traffic colors, or hearing deficiently.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent cardiac events, or certain heart devices.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes causing dangerous conditions or nerve damage interfering with driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory: Untreated apnea causing sleepiness or serious lung conditions.
- Neurological: Epilepsy or conditions causing blackouts.
- Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use or unsafe prescription medication use.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive: Severe mental illness or cognitive issues affecting judgment.
Sometimes, such conditions may only result in temporary disqualification while waiting for medical documentation like blood pressure control.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers