DOT Physical Exams - Starkey, VA

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Starkey, VA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

DOT physicals are detailed medical check-ups mandated by the Department of Transportation for all commercial vehicle operators. These exams confirm that drivers are duly equipped physically, mentally, and emotionally to manage large vehicles on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts the exam. A successful assessment provides drivers with the DOT medical certificate, essential for keeping a CDL under FMCSA rules. If you need help figuring out the needed DOT physical or fall under another DOT authority, reach out to 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

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What is checked in a DOT Physical?

  • Health history review and medication assessment in Starkey, IN
  • 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 completing successfully, the Medical Examiner's Certificate may be issued for up to 24 months. Some conditions require shorter certifications or specialist documentation.

Who needs a DOT Physical?

You need a valid DOT medical card if you:

  • Hold an Starkey, IN CDL for interstate commerce (class A, B, or C)
  • Operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs. GVWR in interstate commerce
  • Transport more than 8 passengers (for hire) or 15+ passengers (not for hire)
  • Carry hazardous materials necessitating DOT placarding
  • Work for DOT-regulated employers like FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, USCG, where medical qualification is mandatory

What to bring with you to a DOT Physical?

  • Government-issued photo identification
  • Corrective eyewear & prescription if applicable
  • List detailing medications & their dosages
  • Record of CPAP use where necessary
  • Specialist clearances for conditions like cardiology, apnea, or diabetes
  • Recent health logs on A1C or blood pressure if monitoring is active

Ensure all requirements are met when attending your exam in Starkey, TN for accuracy and potential certification validity.

What happens if I fail a DOT Physical?

  • No medical card will be granted
  • Temporary disqualifications
  • Referral to your primary clinician for treatment
  • Possible FMCSA exceptions for specific health issues
  • Alerting your employer
  • Steps forward (resolve medical concerns and redo exam)

Be aware, in Starkey, NC, it's crucial to address these concerns for a successful reassessment.

What Will Fail a DOT Physical?

Medical Conditions That Can Fail a DOT Physical

  • Vision & Hearing: Inadequate vision (worse than 20/40), difficulty recognizing traffic signal colors, or significant hearing loss (can't hear a whispered voice at 5 feet).
  • Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Poorly controlled high blood pressure (≥180/110 mmHg), recent cardiac events, or defibrillator without approval.
  • Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes with frequent low sugar episodes or complications that hinder driving.
  • Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated sleep apnea causing sleepiness, or severe lung disease affecting breathing.
  • Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy/seizures unless exempt, conditions causing unplanned unconsciousness, or tremors.
  • Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use, alcohol addiction, or medication misuse impairing driving.
  • Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Serious uncontrolled mental illnesses or cognitive decline affecting decision-making and reflexes.

Certain conditions might lead to temporary disqualification needing medical clearance to resume driving. Others, like untreated seizure disorders, are usually deemed permanently disqualifying under FMCSA policy.

DOT Physical Exam Locations | CDL Medical Card Near You

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(800) 221-4291