DOT Physical Exams - Fountain Heights, TN

Fountain Heights, TN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an in-depth health check required by the Department of Transportation for all commercial vehicle operators. The purpose of this exam is to confirm that drivers are in good physical, mental, and emotional health to handle large vehicles safely on public thoroughfares. Certified medical examiners, registered on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conduct this examination. A successful exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, essential for holding a valid CDL license as per FMCSA standards. If your regulation falls under another DOT agency and you need guidance, 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?

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: Suffering from vision loose with correction worse than 20/40 in each eye, inability to identify traffic light colors, or hearing loss preventing the detection of a whispered voice from 5 feet away.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent cardiac arrest, stroke, uncontrolled chest pain, or a heart implantable defibrillator lacking clearance.
• Diabetes: Non-managed diabetes known for large low-blood-sugar episodes or issues like vision problems that hinder driving safely.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated apnea causing daytime drowsiness, or serious lung disorder affecting oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epileptic disorders, conditions causing sudden blackout, dizziness, or uncontrolled shaking, barring exemptions.
• Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or improper prescription medicine use negatively impacting driving skills.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged mental disorders or cognitive dysfunction impairing quick thinking/reaction time.

Some medical issues can temporarily disqualify you until medical proof or documentation is given, like controlled blood pressure or managed diabetes. Some conditions are usually deemed permanently disqualifying under FMCSA rules, like untreated seizure issues or heart defibrillators.