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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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I have a herniated disc in my lower back resulting in right leg weakness, no reflex, and some numbness. I am able to drive fine but wonder if I will be able to to pass physical in 3 months. I don’t need any pain meds now.
@ Marvin H
Your condition already presents with possible restrictions, if it does not impair your ability to perform all the duties of a CMV operator, then you may be OK.
I’m helping with an inquiry into whether an inguinal hernia exam conducted by a PA as part of a CDL Physical was conducted appropriately. Rather than sitting in front of the standing patient, the PA describes standing to the patients right at 90 degrees before asking the patient to cough while applying mild pressure with his index finger to both discern the inguinal ring and curve around the inguinal ring and into the inguinal canal about an inch. Still standing, he then reaches across the patient to do the patient’s other side with the PA’s right hand by twisting his wrist to the right to allow his right index finger to depress the skin’s surface to allow entry into the inguinal canal at the same depth. Is there any clinical support for this technique as described in a standard CDL Physical?
@ Mark F
DOT/FMCSA does not tell the examiners how to perform their examination. FMCSA expects the examiners to know their examination procedures and the guidelines/regulations of the FMCSA.
I live in tx and my medical card expires this month but I had surgery on my right foot to fuse my 4th metatarsal together I have a plate and 6 screws holding it together. Is that going to be an issue to renew because I still haven’t gotten the ok to go back to work. I’m in physical therapy now. What do I do when my med card expires and cant renew it?
@ Andrea J W
Once you had the surgery your medical card was invalid. Once you have been released to return to work, without restrictions, you will be able to get a new medical examination and card.
I was diagnosed with a bulging disc affecting my sciatic nerve. VA verified with CAT scan and advised consider a new career path and recommend not to have surgery. The pain in my back is increasing while the sciatica is stabilized. The pain is affecting my sleep. I have a DOT physical due in early Jan. I am concerned if i will likely fail the physical.
@ Devin E W
If you are class A interstate driving, it is highly unlikely that you will pass the DOT/FMCSA medical certification examination. By FMCSA guidelines you are not ‘fit for duty’. A lesser class license may fall under the states variances, so check with your states drivers license department for more info.
I had my gallbladder removed in April of this year. I’m physically healthy and in no pain just i have scar tissue inside. With three small scars outside. Im looking forward and starting a career change in truck driving and I really want my CDL-A in NYS. Will i have an issue at the DOT office?
@ Victor R
Should not be an issue, if all else is within normal limits.
I have just been told by my doctor that I have a torn rotated cuff K have been a garbage man for 40 years I have very limited use in my right arm of us says I can drive trucks can I or do I need to get cleared thru a dog docter
@ Mike K
Yes, if you are a class A driver, you need to be cleared.
I had a knee scope done a few weeks ago. My surgeon has cleared me, but what are the rules regarding my DOT certificate? Am I able to go back without any restrictions? Do I have to have another DOT exam? Thanks!
@ Sally
If you were released to return to work, without restrictions. then do a new DOT medical card exam and your good to go.
Does a appendix surgery disqualify a driver?
@ Mike
The surgery does not disqualify a driver. But it would require a new DOT medical certification examination, once released to return to work.