DOT Physical Exams - Watertown, WI

Watertown, WI DOT Physical - What You Need to Know

A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation for every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator. This examination establishes that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of maneuvering large vehicles safely on public highways. A certified medical examiner, listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, conducts the exam. Success in this exam awards the driver a DOT medical certificate, necessary to keep a valid CDL license as per FMCSA guidelines. If another DOT agency regulates you and you're unsure which DOT physical you require, 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?

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: 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.