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Q&A
I have a hernia. Will this disqualify me from passing a DOT physical?
What if I have a limb impairment? Am I disqualified?
I have a hernia. Will this disqualify me from passing a DOT physical?
If the hernia does not interfere with your operation of a commercial motor vehicle, then there is no problem.
If you have pain and are limited in some way, then you should take care of the problem before it does become a serious problem.
I had hernia surgery three years ago. There is some scar tissue which causes a little discomfort from time to time but in no way renders me unable to perform any tasks. Will this cause me to fail a DOT physical?
During the examination you will be questioned regarding the hernia surgery. Just let the medical examiner know how this effects you and whether it interferes with your daily activities. Some companies have restrictions, but this is a company policy not a DOT regulation.
I have a hernia that does not give me any trouble. The doctor I saw for my DOT exam says I have to get it repaired before my next exam. What if my regular doctor says that we can do watchful waiting instead of surgery? What are my rights under the law about this?
The DOT examiner is looking at a progressive condition, but if you will take a note from your primary doctor who has evaluated your condition and understands what you really do for a living, then the DOT examiner should consider your primary doctor’s opinion. However, the final decision to certify you, or not, remains with the medical examiner.
What if I have a limb impairment? Am I disqualified?
It is possible to apply for an exemption. FMCSA has a certificate program for drivers with limb impairments. FMCSA also has a special certification program for drivers with missing limbs. (see FMCSA Skill Performance Evaluation)
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Your comments are also welcome.
I had surgery on my left lateral meniscus, Will I be able to take my drivers test still with a brace on my left leg?
I was in a auto accident and off work for neck and back pain, I start physical therapy and am off work. If my doctor released me to go back to work with no restrictions but am still doing physical therapy would I be able to pass a dot exam or would I have to wait to be done with therapy also.
If I get my verdabrae fused in my neck and carpal tunnel surgery on both arms will I be able to get a DOT card afterwards
I am a school bus driver due to renew. I have my class B & recently had to start peritoneal dialysis at home, which I perform at night. Will I b allowed to continue driving a school bus?
I was diagnosed with spinal stenosi and had neck surgery c3- c6 fusion I have 51° to right rotation and 65° left rotation. How long after surgery can I go get DOT card back. Do I have to wait 3 months because my doctor might release me sooner.
Good afternoon,
I had a bicep tendon tear surgery two month and I have to take a dot phisical. Will this be a problem and get rejected because of it?
They took the cast out a moth a go and I already have 100% full use of my arm and recovering strengh rapidly.
Please let me know.
Thanks
I’ve had rotator cuff surgery if the doctor clears me to drive but no lifting will this restriction stop me from passing the DOT physical
I had this repair done and didn’t have a problem with the dot physical.
Can you drive after a liver transplant.
@Joe
Yes. There will be a wait period and you will need a full medical release from your doctors.
I recently had an Umbilical Hernia repaired.
Went for a DOT EXAM in order to take the CDL TEST.
I Passed the Physical portion of the test. The Physician asked me to get a Relise Form signed by my DR.
The Dr signed the Release and Checked Off OK to Work and wrote, can not lift anything over 15lbs for 6 months.
I took it back to the Physician and was told I Failed and need to come back in 6 months.
From what I’ve read the FMCSA has nothing staying that the Restrication is an automatic Fail. It states that would be a Company Policy Issue.
I’m just trying to take the Written Test right now. Could easily be 4 to 6 months before I even get a License.
What can I do it go to show this Physician that it’s OK to Pass me and give me the DOT Certificate.
Thanks in Advance
i messed my back up have 3 bad discs in my lower back i am in a lot better shape then i was been off the road for 6 years also i have nerve damage in my left leg my ???is do i have a possible chance of getting my cdl back what ss in paying is not enough
@Pete
With nerve damage, depending on your restrictions, will cause questions but should be evaluated by the medical examiner. Make sure you take a medical release form from your primary doctor explaining your present condition and prognosis.