DOT Physical Exams - Force, PA
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAForce, PA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
DOT physicals are thorough medical exams mandated by the Department of Transportation for commercial motor vehicle drivers. They ensure that drivers are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to handle large vehicles on the roads. Certified medical examiners listed on the National Registry conduct these exams. Successful candidates earn a DOT medical certificate to keep a CDL license valid, as required by FMCSA. For help with DOT physical requirements, 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?
- Review of health history and medication adjustment
- Vision exam (correction permitted, minimum set)
- Hearing test (forced whisper or audiometry possible)
- Check blood pressure and pulse
- Overall bodily assessment (comprehensive system review)
- Basic urinalysis (includes tests for specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Success in these can get you a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid up to two years. Some conditions in Force, NH could mean less time certified or need specialist's records for a shorter timeframe.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A current DOT medical certificate (card) is required if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) - classes A, B, or C, for interstate activities
- Operate vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR in interstate commerce
- Transport over 8 paying or more than 15 non-paying passengers
- Carry hazardous substances that necessitate DOT warning placards
- Work for DOT-supervised companies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG needing DOT medical credentials, applicable in Force, ME
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Official photo ID
- Eyewear & prescription
- Documents on medication & dose
- CPAP machine data (when applicable)
- Medical specialists' approval (i.e., cardiology, for sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if tracked
During your DOT physical in Force, NY, these items will assist in ensuring all required information is available and reviewed.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- Denial of the Medical card
- Temporary ineligibility
- Referral to your main healthcare provider for further treatment
- FMCSA waivers for specific medical conditions
- Notification to your employer
- Further actions include addressing health issues and retrying the exam
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision worse than 20/40 per eye (with glasses), inability to see traffic light colors, or hearing loss preventing detection of a whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or an unapproved defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications (nerve damage, vision issues) disrupting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness, or severe lung disease impairing breathing.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizures (unless exempted), conditions causing sudden unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrollable shakes.
- Substance Abuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescription drugs impairing driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unchecked mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive decline affecting decision-making and response time.
Issues may temporarily disqualify you until you provide clearance or documentation (e.g., controlled blood pressure, diabetes management), while others like untreated seizures or unauthorized defibrillators are typically considered permanent disqualifiers by FMCSA.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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