DOT Physical Exams - Carey, TX
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSACarey, TX 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?
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 health history and medications
- Vision test (glasses allowed; minimum standards required)
- Hearing check (forced whisper or audiometry used)
- Blood pressure and heart rate measurements
- Complete physical exam
- Urinalysis to check specific gravity, protein, glucose
If successful, receive a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) valid up to 24 months. Some cases may demand note or shorter duration. Carey, NE's rules apply.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
Holding a current DOT medical certificate is mandatory if you:
- Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL) – class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Operate a vehicle with a GVWR over 10,001 lbs in interstate trade
- Transport over 8 paying passengers or 15 non-paying ones
- Handle hazardous materials needing DOT regulation placards
- Are employed by DOT-regulated bodies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG with medical qualification requisites
This includes Carey, OR drivers.
What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?
- Government-issued identification
- Eyewear/contact lenses & prescription
- A list of medication & dosages
- CPAP device data (if applicable)
- Specialist approvals (heart, sleep, diabetes, etc.)
- Recent logs for A1C/blood pressure if monitored
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- Issuance of Medical card denied
- Imposed temporary disqualification
- Directed to primary care doctor for treatment
- Seek FMCSA exemptions for specific health issues
- Notification to employer required
- Plan next actions (tackle medical concerns and retake the test)
Ensure compliance with Carey, MO regulations and guidelines, and prepare for potential reevaluation as necessitated.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity worse than 20/40 in each eye (with correction), inability to recognize traffic light colors, or hearing loss preventing understanding of a whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Hypertension uncontrolled (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart event, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or defibrillator without clearance.
- Diabetes: Diabetes not managed properly with frequent hypoglycemia or complications affecting safe driving.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing daytime sleepiness or severe lung disease impairing oxygen intake.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizures, or conditions with sudden consciousness loss, dizziness, or uncontrolled tremors without exemptions.
- Substance Abuse: Current illicit drug use, alcohol dependency, or prescription misuse affecting driving.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious untreated psychiatric conditions or cognitive problems impacting decision-making and reaction time.
Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Some conditions may cause temporary disqualification until medical clearance (e.g., controlled blood pressure). Others, like untreated seizures or defibrillators, are generally permanently disqualifying under FMCSA.
DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You
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