DOT Physical Exams - Stella, TN
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAStella, TN DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical is an in-depth health check mandated by the Department of Transportation for all CMV operators. The examination verifies that these drivers are capable physically, mentally, and emotionally to control large vehicles safely on public roads. Conducted by a registered medical examiner on the NRCME, passing this exam permits drivers to obtain a DOT medical certificate. This is essential for maintaining a valid CDL under FMCSA requirements. For guidance on the correct DOT physical, please call 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?
- Health history review and medication assessment
- Vision screening (corrective lenses allowed; minimum standards apply)
- Hearing assessment (forced whisper or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse rate
- Physical examination (systems review)
- Urinalysis (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Upon successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be issued for up to 24 months. Some conditions may require shorter certification or specialist documentation. Ensure compliance, especially in Stella, PA.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
In Stella, ND, possessing a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is mandatory if you:
- Hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Carry over 8 passengers (for hire) or over 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials needing placarding as per DOT rules
- Are employed by agencies governed by DOT, such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical qualification is necessary
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued photo ID
- Glasses/contact lenses & prescription
- List of medications & dosages
- CPAP usage data (if applicable)
- Specialist clearances (cardiology, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored
Make sure you bring these important documents to your exam in Stella, VT.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be issued
- Temporary disqualification
- Referral for treatment to your primary care doctor
- FMCSA exemptions for certain medical conditions
- Employer Notification
- Next Steps (address the medical issues and retake the exam)
Failing the exam means the driver has to address the medical issues before another attempt. Stella, RI drivers, like those in all states, must meet these criteria to ensure the safety of their commercial driving operations.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Failing to meet vision standards of 20/40 per eye, color vision issues, or inability to hear a forced wisper five feet away.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Uncontrolled blood pressure (at least 180/110 mmHg), any recent cardiac events, or an implanted defibrillator lacking clearance.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or difficulties such as neuropathy affecting driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Daytime sleepiness from untreated apnea or severe pulmonary dysfunction.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy, loss of consciousness conditions or severe tremors without exemption.
- Substance Abuse: Active illegal drug use, alcohol dependency, or misuse of prescriptions affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Intense psychiatric disorders such as unmanaged bipolar disorder impairing judgment.
Certain conditions cause temporary disqualification until medical clearance is proven (e.g., stable blood pressure). Others, like seizure disorders with no treatment or implanted defibrillators, are permanent disqualifications under FMCSA standards.
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