DOT Physical Exams - Morris Chapel, TN

Morris Chapel, TN 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?

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: Visual acuity worse than 20/40 in both eyes with correction or inability to see traffic colors; hearing loss preventing a whispered voice recognition at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, stroke, untreated angina, or defibrillator implant without approval.
• Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemic episodes or complications like neuropathy affecting driving.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing sleepiness during the day or severe respiratory disorder affecting oxygen supply.
• Neurological Disorders: Epileptic/seizure disorders unless exempt, or conditions triggering loss of consciousness, dizziness, or tremors.
• Substance Use: Current illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescribed drugs affecting driving.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent symptoms) or cognitive deficiencies affecting response and decision-making.

Some medical conditions might temporarily disqualify until medical evaluations or documentation are provided, such as managed blood pressure or diabetes control; whereas conditions like untreated seizures or defibrillator implants often lead to a permanent disqualification under FMCSA guidelines.