DOT Physical Exams - Stanley, ND
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAStanley, ND DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical examination, mandated by the Department of Transportation, is essential for all commercial motor vehicle drivers. This thorough checkup confirms that drivers are capable of operating large vehicles safely on public roads, both physically and mentally. Conducted by certified medical professionals listed in the National Registry, successfully passing this exam grants drivers the DOT medical certificate. This certificate is necessary for keeping a valid CDL license according to FMCSA standards. If you're governed by a different DOT authority and need guidance on which DOT physical applies to you, dial 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 review and medication assessment
- Vision screening (corrective lenses allowed; minimum standards apply)
- Hearing assessment (forced whisper test or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse rate
- Physical examination (systems review)
- Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Upon successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be issued for up to 24 months. Some conditions may require shorter certification or specialist documentation, especially in Stanley, VT.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You are required to hold a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Own a commercial driver's license (CDL) class A, B, or C for inter-state business.
- Drive vehicles above 10,001 lbs. GVWR for inter-state business.
- Transport over eight passengers (if hired) or 15+ passengers (non-hire).
- Carry hazardous substances needing DOT compliance placarding.
- Work for employers under DOT bodies like FMCSA, FAA, or other where DOT medical clearance is essential in Stanley, NC.
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 can be released
- Provisional disqualification
- Refer back to primary care for treatment
- FMCSA grants exceptions for specific illnesses
- Notice to employer
- Follow-up steps (resolve medical concerns and reattempt 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.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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