DOT Physical Exams - Rossville, TN
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSARossville, TN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator. This examination establishes that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of maneuvering large vehicles safely on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts the exam. Success in this exam awards the driver a DOT medical certificate, necessary to keep a valid CDL license as per FMCSA guidelines. If another DOT agency regulates you and you're unsure which DOT physical you require, 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?
Vision Test
Urinalysis
Physical Examination
DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available
What is checked in a DOT Physical?
- Review of medical history and medication assessment
- Eye test (corrective eyewear permissible; minimum norms apply)
- Hearing test (forced whisper test or audiometric assessment)
- Check blood pressure and pulse
- Physical exam (system review)
- Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Upon successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be valid for 24 months. In Rossville, MT, some conditions may demand shorter certification or specialist papers.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
A current DOT medical certificate (card) is required if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) - classes A, B, or C, for interstate activities
- Operate vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR in interstate commerce
- Transport over 8 paying or more than 15 non-paying passengers
- Carry hazardous substances that necessitate DOT warning placards
- Work for DOT-supervised companies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG needing DOT medical credentials, applicable in Rossville, ME
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-Issued Picture ID
- Glasses/Contacts & Prescription
- Complete Medication List & Dosages
- CPAP Data (if used)
- Specialist Clearances (Cardiology, Sleep Apnea, Diabetes)
- Recent A1C/Blood Pressure Logs (if monitored)
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No issuance of a Medical card
- Temporary ban from driving
- Referral for medical follow-up with your regular doctor
- FMCSA allowances for specific health conditions
- Notification sent to employer
- Proceed with resolving health issues and retake the exam
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Poor vision (<20/40) in each eye (even with aids), inability to see traffic signal colors, or hearing loss that fails a 5-foot whisper test.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled high blood pressure (>=180/110 mmHg), recent heart event or stroke, unmanaged angina, or implanted defibrillator without medical approval.
- Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes marked by frequent low sugar episodes or complications like neuropathy impacting safety.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing drowsiness, or severe respiratory diseases affecting oxygen levels.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders without exemption, conditions with sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or tremors uncontrolled.
- Substance Abuse: Use of illegal drugs, alcohol dependency, or improper prescription use that affects driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious psychiatric conditions (e.g., severe schizophrenia, recent bipolar episode) or cognitive deficiencies affecting decision-making and reaction.
Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some issues might temporarily disqualify someone pending medical documentation or condition management. Meanwhile, certain conditions like untreated seizure disorders or unapproved defibrillators are likely seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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