Can high blood pressure make you fail a DOT physical?

Yes. Drivers with blood pressure at or above 180/110 mmHg will fail the DOT physical. Lower levels of hypertension may result in shorter certification periods if under treatment.

Does diabetes disqualify you from a DOT physical?

Not always. Controlled diabetes with proper documentation may be allowed. Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications can cause disqualification until managed.

Will sleep apnea cause you to fail a DOT physical?

Untreated or uncontrolled sleep apnea that causes daytime drowsiness can disqualify a driver. However, drivers who are compliant with CPAP or other treatments may qualify with documentation.

What does the Ohio DOT physical include?

The DOT physical exam in Ohio typically includes a review of medical history and medications, vision and hearing tests, measurement of blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, urinalysis and a general physical exam by a certified medical examiner. Upon passing, you may receive a medical examiner’s certificate valid for up to 24 months.

Who in Ohio needs to get a DOT physical?

Any driver holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for interstate or intrastate commerce in Ohio, or operating a commercial motor vehicle regulated by the DOT, must have a valid medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner.

Where can I have the DOT physical done in Ohio?

Ohio drivers can schedule their DOT physical through Accredited Drug Testing’s network of certified examiners and collection sites across the state, ensuring compliance with both federal and Ohio state requirements.

What should I bring with me to the DOT physical in Ohio?

Bring a photo ID, your current medical certificate if applicable, list of medications and dosages, any specialist clearance letters (for conditions such as sleep apnea or cardiac issues) and glasses or contact lens prescription if used.

What happens if I don’t pass my Ohio DOT physical?

If you fail the exam, you will not receive the medical certificate and your driving privileges under the DOT‐regulated commercial vehicle operations may be suspended until you meet the qualifying medical requirements and are re-examined.

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Ohio DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an extensive health evaluation stipulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial vehicle drivers. This examination verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit for safely navigating large vehicles on public roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, successfully completing the exam earns a DOT medical card, vital for maintaining a valid CDL under FMCSA rules. For guidance on DOT agency-specific physicals, 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?

Health History Review
Vision Test

Hearing Test
Urinalysis

Vital Signs
Physical Examination

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

What is checked in a DOT Physical?

Review of health history and medications
Vision check (corrective lenses allowed; must meet minimum standards)
Hearing evaluation (such as forced whisper test)
Blood pressure and pulse measurement
Physical exam (including systems review)
Urinalysis (for specific gravity, proteins, 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.

Location: Ohio

Who needs a DOT Physical?

You are required to hold a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:

Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) in class A, B, or C for interstate trade
Drive vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating in interstate trade
Transport more than 8 for-hire or over 15 non-hire passengers
Carry hazardous materials needing DOT placards
Are employed by DOT-regulated entities such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where DOT medical clearance is essential

Location: Ohio

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Government-issued photo ID
Eyewear and prescription
Medication list with doses
CPAP usage info (if needed)
Specialist clearances (heart issues, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
Recent A1C and blood pressure logs if subject to monitoring

Location: Ohio

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

No Medical card will be issued
Temporary disqualification
Referral for treatment to your primary care doctor
FMCSA exemptions for certain medical conditions
Employer Notification
Next Steps (address the medical issues and retake the exam)

Location: Ohio

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

Vision & Hearing: Failing to meet 20/40 vision standard in each eye with correction, inability to identify traffic signal colors, or hearing deficits that restrict forced whisper detection at 5 feet.
Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (â‰¥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac event, stroke, unmanaged angina, or unapproved implanted defibrillator.
Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes resulting in frequent low blood glucose incidents or complications (e.g., nerve or vision problems jeopardizing driving safety).
Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Unaddressed sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness, or severe lung disease interfering with proper oxygenation.
Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or other seizure conditions (barring exemptions), disorders causing sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or tremors.
Substance Abuse: Current illegal substance use, alcohol addiction, or misuse of prescriptions impairing driving abilities.
Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Uncontrolled serious psychiatric disorders (such as schizophrenia or bipolar events) or cognitive issues affecting judgment and reaction.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some problems may only temporarily disqualify until medical clearance or documentation is provided (e.g., controlled blood pressure). Others, like untreated seizure disorders or implanted defibrillators, are typically permanent disqualifications under FMCSA guidelines.