DOT Physical Exams - Kirkland, WA

Kirkland, WA DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is a thorough health examination mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). This checkup is crucial to confirm that drivers are in the right physical, mental, and emotional condition to safely maneuver large vehicles on public streets. A certified medical examiner (CME) enlisted on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conducts the DOT physical. Successfully passing the physical allows drivers to obtain a DOT medical certificate (also recognized as a DOT medical card), which is necessary for maintaining a current CDL under FMCSA guidelines. If you're governed by a different DOT agency and require help identifying the necessary DOT physical, 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?

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: If vision is worse than 20/40 per eye, color blind to signals, or cannot hear a whisper at 5 feet, it poses issues.
• Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Unmanaged high blood pressure, recent cardiac events, or implanted medical devices without a clearance can disqualify.
• Diabetes: If uncontrolled with frequent hypoglycemia or complications, it can hinder driving ability.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Issues: Untreated apnea causing daytime fatigue or severe lung conditions can be problematic.
• Neurological Disorders: Conditions like epilepsy or frequent dizziness are generally disqualifying unless exempted.
• Substance Abuse: Use of illegal drugs, dependence on alcohol, or misuse of prescription drugs affecting driving can disqualify.
• Psychiatric & Cognitive Disorders: Severe mental health conditions or cognitive issues impacting safety are concerns.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disqualification: Issues may be temporary if controlled with documentation but certain conditions like untreated seizures or defibrillators are typically permanent under FMCSA standards.