DOT Physical Exams - Apison, TN

Apison, TN 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: 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.