DOT Physical Exams - Fargo, OK
Locations, All Cities, All States
FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAFargo, OK DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is a detailed health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation for all commercial vehicle operators. This examination verifies that drivers are healthy enough, both physically and mentally, to operate large vehicles safely on public pathways. A certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners conducts the DOT physical. Passing it enables drivers to obtain a DOT medical card, essential for maintaining a valid CDL under FMCSA guidelines. If uncertain about which DOT physical applies due to regulation by another DOT entity, 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?
Vision Test
Urinalysis
Physical Examination
DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available
What is checked in a DOT Physical?
- Review health history and medications
- Vision test (corrective lenses accepted, minimum standards needed)
- Hearing evaluation (forced whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse examination
- Comprehensive physical checkup (systems review)
- Urinalysis (checking specific gravity, protein, glucose)
After passing, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) might be valid for up to 24 months; however, specific conditions could demand more frequent certifications or expert notes. This applies in Fargo, ME.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You should have an active DOT medical certificate if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) of class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Drive vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Carry more than 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (non-hire)
- Convey hazardous materials needing placarding as per DOT guidelines
- Work for employers overseen by DOT bodies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG where DOT medical qualification is essential. This applies in Fargo, DC.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo
- Glasses/contacts & prescription
- List of medications & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Ensure all required documents are up-to-date, especially when operating outside your home state, like Fargo, HI.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card issued in Fargo, IN
- Temporary disqualification
- Referral to primary care physician for treatment
- FMCSA exemptions exist for some conditions
- Notification of employer
- Address medical issues and retake the exam in Fargo, IN to remain compliant.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision below 20/40 in each eye (even with correction), inability to discern signal colors, or hearing inability to detect a whisper from 5 feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart events, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or non-cleared defibrillator implants.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications that hinder safe operation.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing fatigue, or severe pulmonary disease impairing oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or other seizure conditions (unless exempted), disorders causing sudden consciousness loss, vertigo, or tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Current use of illicit drugs, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescriptions affecting driving capabilities.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric conditions or cognitive deficits that affect decision-making and reflexes.
Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some conditions might temporarily disqualify you until medical documentation is provided (e.g., hypertension control, diabetes management). Others, such as untreated seizures or defibrillators, are often deemed permanently disqualifying by FMCSA.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers