DOT Physical Exams - Red Elm, SD
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSARed Elm, SD DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical exam is an in-depth health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation for all commercial motor vehicle operators. This test ascertains the physical, mental, and emotional wellness required for safe operation of large vehicles on roads open to the public. Only certified medical examiners listed on the National Registry administer the DOT physical. Successful completion awards a DOT medical certificate, necessary for maintaining a valid CDL per FMCSA rules. For guidance on which DOT physical applies, particularly if you're in another DOT-regulated sector, give us a call 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 & meds
- Checking vision (glasses ok; must meet standards)
- Testing hearing (via whisper or audiometry)
- Monitoring blood pressure & pulse
- Examining physical systems
- Urinalysis (for glucose, protein, specific gravity)
Completion in Red Elm, TX might allow for a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) up to 24 months. Certain conditions may call for shorter certification or additional specialist documents.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A valid DOT medical certificate (card) is essential if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) class A, B, or C for interstate trade
- Operate a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs GVWR in interstate trade
- Transport over 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Move hazardous goods needing placards as per DOT codes
- Work with employers overseen by DOT bodies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical qualification is mandatory
This requirement applies in Red Elm, IL.
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 necessary documents and equipment are with you when attending your exam in Red Elm, SC.
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: Less than 20/40 vision in both eyes, inability to distinguish traffic light colors, or inability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension uncontrolled (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, uncontrolled angina, stroke, or an uncleared defibrillator.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes resulting in low blood sugar episodes frequently or complications like neuropathy or impaired vision that hinder safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Conditions: Untreated sleep apnea causing drowsiness during the day or severe lung conditions obstructing oxygenation.
- Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy or seizure disorders (unless exempt), or conditions leading to unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking.
- Substance Misuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or abuse of prescription drugs impacting driving.
- Mental & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled psychiatric conditions or cognitive impairments affecting judgment or reaction time.
Some matters might cause a temporary disqualification until medical documentation is supplied (controlled blood pressure, diabetes management). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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