Can high blood pressure make you fail a DOT physical?

Yes. Drivers with blood pressure at or above 180/110 mmHg will fail the DOT physical. Lower levels of hypertension may result in shorter certification periods if under treatment.

Does diabetes disqualify you from a DOT physical?

Not always. Controlled diabetes with proper documentation may be allowed. Uncontrolled diabetes with frequent hypoglycemia or complications can cause disqualification until managed.

Will sleep apnea cause you to fail a DOT physical?

Untreated or uncontrolled sleep apnea that causes daytime drowsiness can disqualify a driver. However, drivers who are compliant with CPAP or other treatments may qualify with documentation.

What does the Virginia DOT physical include?

The DOT physical exam in Virginia typically includes a review of medical history and medications, vision and hearing tests, measurement of blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, urinalysis and a general physical exam by a certified medical examiner. Upon passing, you may receive a medical examiner’s certificate valid for up to 24 months.

Who in Virginia needs to get a DOT physical?

Any driver holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for interstate or intrastate commerce in Virginia, or operating a commercial motor vehicle regulated by the DOT, must have a valid medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner.

Where can I have the DOT physical done in Virginia?

Virginia drivers can schedule their DOT physical through Accredited Drug Testing’s network of certified examiners and collection sites across the state, ensuring compliance with both federal and Virginia state requirements.

What should I bring with me to the DOT physical in Virginia?

Bring a photo ID, your current medical certificate if applicable, list of medications and dosages, any specialist clearance letters (for conditions such as sleep apnea or cardiac issues) and glasses or contact lens prescription if used.

What happens if I don’t pass my Virginia DOT physical?

If you fail the exam, you will not receive the medical certificate and your driving privileges under the DOT‐regulated commercial vehicle operations may be suspended until you meet the qualifying medical requirements and are re-examined.

DOT Physical Exams - Virginia

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Virginia DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a detailed health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation for all commercial vehicle operators. This examination verifies that drivers are healthy enough, both physically and mentally, to operate large vehicles safely on public pathways. A certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners conducts the DOT physical. Passing it enables drivers to obtain a DOT medical card, essential for maintaining a valid CDL under FMCSA guidelines. If uncertain about which DOT physical applies due to regulation by another DOT entity, 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?

Health History Review
Vision Test

Hearing Test
Urinalysis

Vital Signs
Physical Examination

DOT Testing | DOT Breath Alcohol | DOT Consortium Services | MVR Reports Also Available

What is checked in a DOT Physical?

Health history analysis and medication examination
Vision check (corrective eyewear allowed, minimum benchmarks apply)
Hearing evaluation (forced whisper or audiometry)
Blood pressure and heart rate
Physical exam (system assessment)
Urine test (specific gravity, proteins, glucose)

When finished successfully, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) in Virginia may be granted for up to 24 months. Certain conditions might necessitate a shorter certification period or specialist's note.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

Holding a valid DOT medical certificate (card) is imperative if you:

Possess a commercial driver's license (CDL)- class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
Operate a vehicle weighing over 10,001 lbs. gross vehicle weight rating in interstate commerce
Transport more than 8 passengers for hire, or over 15 passengers not for hire
Convey hazardous materials demanding placards under DOT rules
Are employed by entities regulated under DOT agencies like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical certification is necessary

Ensure inclusion in Virginia.

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

Official photo ID
Corrective lenses/glasses & prescription
Medication list & dosages
Data on CPAP usage (if required)
Expert clearances (heart, apnea, diabetes, etc.)
Recent A1C/blood pressure logs if monitored

Ensure to have this in Virginia.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

No medical card issuance
Temporary disqualification status
Suggestion to seek treatment from primary healthcare provider
Possibility of obtaining FMCSA exemptions for specific medical issues
Notification to employer
Follow-up Steps (address the underlying health concerns and retake the exam)

Ensure to refer in Virginia.

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.

References:
- FMCSA Medical Examiner Physical Qualification Standards (Â§391.41)
- 49 CFR Part 391 - Qualification of Drivers
- Medical Examiner's Handbook
- FMCSA Driver Exemptions