DOT Physical Exams - Interior, SD
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAInterior, SD DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an extensive health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This examination verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally equipped to handle large vehicles on public roadways safely. A certified medical examiner (CME), listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), conducts the DOT physical. Success in the exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, or Medical Examiners Certificate, often referred to as a DOT medical card, necessary to uphold a valid CDL license per FMCSA guidelines. If you're subject to another DOT agency's regulation and require help identifying the required DOT physical, 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
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What is checked in a DOT Physical?
- Review of health history and medications
- Vision test (corrective eyewear allowed; meet minimum requirements)
- Hear evaluation (via forced whisper or audiometry)
- Pulse rate and blood pressure check
- Comprehensive physical examination
- Urine analysis (checks for gravity, proteins, glucose)
Once you successfully complete the Interior, MD exam, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be valid for a period of up to two years. However, certain conditions may necessitate more frequent certification or additional specialist documentation.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
Holding a current DOT medical certificate is mandatory if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) – class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle with a GVWR over 10,001 lbs in interstate trade
- Transport over 8 paying passengers or 15 non-paying ones
- Handle hazardous materials needing DOT regulation placards
- Are employed by DOT-regulated bodies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG with medical qualification requisites
This includes Interior, OR drivers.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued ID
- Eyewear and its prescription
- Medication list with doses
- CPAP machine data, if used
- Specialist approvals (cardiac issues, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs, if monitored
Ensure these items are prepared before your Interior, MD DOT examination to prevent potential delays or issues in the process.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- Medical card refusal
- Short-term disqualification
- Referral to primary doctor for treatment
- FMCSA exemptions for specific health conditions
- Employer communication
- Following steps: resolve health issues and redo the examination
Stay informed about the regulations and requirements specific to Interior, WA to ensure compliance.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision worse than 20/40 with correction, inability to differentiate traffic signal colors, or hearing loss stopping a forced whisper audibility at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), recent angina attack, stroke, or implanted defibrillator without approval.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with recurrent low glucose episodes or complications like neuropathy affecting driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing drowsiness, or severe lung disease limiting oxygenation.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy or seizures (unless exempt), conditions causing sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors.
- Substance Abuse: Present use of illegal substances, alcohol dependency, or prescription medication misuse affecting driving ability.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder and cognitive impairments impacting judgment and reaction speed.
Certain issues might cause temporary disqualification until medical clearance is provided (e.g., regulated blood pressure). Others, such as untreated seizures, are generally regarded as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA standards.
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