DOT Physical Exams - Hartfield, VA
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FMCSA | FAA | USCG | FTA | FRA | PHMSAHartfield, VA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know
A DOT physical consists of a detailed health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation for all operators of commercial motor vehicles. This assessment confirms that drivers are adequately fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to manage substantial vehicles on roadways. Conducted by a certified medical examiner found on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, passing it grants a medical certificate necessary for retaining a valid CDL according to FMCSA rules. For guidance on which DOT physical might be needed if regulated by another DOT agency, 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 health history and medication use
- Eyesight test (corrective lenses accepted, minimum levels required)
- Hearing test (whisper test or audiometry)
- Blood pressure and pulse check
- Physical evaluation (systems assessment)
- Urine test (specific gravity, protein, glucose)
Upon successful completion, your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) may be issued for up to 24 months, with the potential for shorter duration requiring specialist validation in Hartfield, MS.
Who needs a DOT Physical?
You must have a valid DOT medical certificate (card) if you:
- Have a commercial driver's license (CDL) - class A, B, or C for interstate commerce
- Drive a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
- Transport more than 8 passengers (for hire) or more than 15 passengers (not for hire)
- Transport hazardous materials requiring placarding under DOT regulations
- Work for employers regulated by DOT agencies such as FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, or USCG, where DOT medical qualification is required, including Hartfield, VT.
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 Hartfield, VT.
What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?
- No Medical card will be issued
- Temporary disqualification notice
- Directed to consult your primary care provider
- Consider FMCSA exemptions for specific health issues
- Notification given to your employer
- Follow-up steps: address health concerns and schedule a retake of the exam
This process is in effect in Hartfield, ME.
What Will Fail a DOT Physical?
Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical
- Vision & Hearing: Vision weaker than 20/40 in each eye even with correction, inability to recognize traffic light colors, or hearing deficiency that affects detecting a forced whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent myocardial infarction, stroke, unaddressed angina, or a defibrillator implant without medical sign-off.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes accompanied by frequent hypoglycemia or complications like neuropathy or sight impairment that interfere with driving safety.
- Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea causing drowsiness during the day, or severe pulmonary conditions affecting proper oxygenation.
- Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure conditions (unless exempt), disorders causing unexpected unconsciousness, dizziness, or uncontrolled movements.
- Substance Abuse: Current substance misuse, alcohol dependency, or use of prescriptions that reduce driving capability.
- Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe, unmanaged psychiatric disorders (e.g., active schizophrenia, bipolar disorder with recent episodes) or cognitive deficits that affect judgment and reflexes.
Some conditions might temporarily disqualify you until medical clearance or documentation is provided (e.g., regulated blood pressure, managed diabetes). Others, like untreated seizure disorders or implanted defibrillators, generally result in permanent disqualification as per FMCSA standards.
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