DOT Physical Exams - Garfield Heights, OH

Garfield Heights, OH DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

DOT medical exams are thorough health evaluations mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle operator. These assessments ensure drivers are adequately fit physically, emotionally, and mentally to drive large vehicles safely on the roads. A licensed medical professional from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners must carry out this exam. Upon passing, drivers obtain a DOT medical certificate, essential for keeping a CDL valid following FMCSA guidelines. For questions about which DOT exam is necessary for your specific DOT agency, 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?

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: Vision worse than 20/40 in both eyes with correction, inability to identify traffic signal colors, or hearing loss obstructing hearing a forced whisper at a 5-foot range.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Severe hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack or stroke, untreated angina, or an implanted defibrillator lacking medical clearance.
• Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes leading to frequent low blood sugar events or complications like neuropathy or impaired vision that hinder safe driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness or serious lung condition affecting oxygen intake.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizure conditions (except those exempted), disorders leading to sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrollable shaking.
• Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug usage, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescribed medicines that impair driving capabilities.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric disorders (like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with recent mood episodes) or cognitive decline impacting decision-making and reflexes.

Some problems might only result in temporary disqualification until medical clearance or proof of control (e.g., regulated blood pressure, diabetes care) is supplied. Conversely, certain conditions such as untreated seizure disorders or the presence of an implanted defibrillator are generally viewed as permanently disqualifying based on FMCSA guidelines.