DOT Physical Exams - Lansdowne, VA

Lansdowne, VA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an in-depth health evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This examination certifies that drivers are equipped physically, mentally, and emotionally to handle large vehicles on public streets safely. A medical examiner, verified by the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts this test. Successful completion allows drivers to obtain a DOT medical certificate, necessary for keeping a valid CDL license in compliance with FMCSA regulations.

If regulated by another DOT body and need help recognizing the necessary physical, dial 800-221-4291 for assistance.

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?

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

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

• Vision & Hearing: Unable to see better than 20/40 in each eye with correction, trouble identifying traffic signal colors, or hearing loss affecting ability to hear whispers at 5 feet.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled angina, or an unapproved defibrillator.
• Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes with frequent low sugar incidents or complications like neuropathy or vision issues impacting driving safety.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea leading to daytime sleepiness or severe lung disease hindering oxygen levels.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizure disorders unless exempt, sudden loss of consciousness, dizziness, or involuntary tremors.
• Substance Abuse: Use of illegal substances, reliance on alcohol, or misuse of medications impacting driving.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe unmanaged psychiatric problems or cognitive decline affecting decision making or reaction times.

Some issues might only temporarily disqualify you if you fail to provide medical approval or records (like regulated blood pressure, diabetes care). Others, such as untreated seizures or implanted defibrillators, are usually seen as permanently disqualifying by FMCSA standards.