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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 read the questions and comments I haven’t seen anything in regards to my question, please forgive me if I’ve overlooked! But I went to get my Dot Physical done today and the Doctor didn’t complete the physical due to the fact I’ve been having pain in my leg due to the fact that it maybe Sciatica Nerve damage, I don’t do anything for the pain I just deal with it!! Curious to know on what grounds would that disqualify me from getting a physical it doesn’t hold me back from doing my job!! Please help
@ Johnny C
The risk factors that the DOT/FMCSA placed on the CME’s causes the examiner to be leery. You have pain and you do not know what it’s coming from. The CME has unanswered questions regarding this and does not allow for good decision making. We suspect the examiner is wanting additional information before moving on. Find out whats causing the pain, get it taken care of and everybody will be in the know.
I had 7 pins and screws implanted to fix a broken right ankle, will I be able to renew my medical card if I get medically released by my doctor?
@ Joe
As long as you can perform the duties of a CMV operator and there are no restrictions or limitation placed on you by your physician, you should be fine.
I walk with a slight limp because of arthritis in my hip joint …will that cause me to fail DOT physical???
@ Matthew c
If the limp or arthritis in the hip do not hinder your ability to perform the duties of a CMV operator, you should do fine.
I went for a DOT Physical, and was not passed. The Doctor has requested an EKG, and a sleep test.
My Cardiologist performed an EKG, and says that I should be good to go. My Medical Dr has never required a Sleep Study. Is this neccessary and how should I proceed?
@ Steven B
DOT/FMCSA does not require a sleep study unless there are signs of possible obstructive sleep apnea, OSA, If you have no difficulties with day time sleepiness, then go else where for a second opinion to get your dot medical card.
Steven B. That is not true. Is your BMI is greater than 40 a sleep study is required. Or, if your BMI is >33 and you have comorbidities a sleep study is required.
@ Beth A.
Please site FMCSA regulation for mandatory sleep study based solely on BMI.
I am considering getting back into driving again. I’ve had a Cdl since 1987 and used it for 14 years prior to leaving trucking and doing something else for 18 years. I was diagnosed with cancer in 2018 and went through the usual treatments. Now in remission for over a year. The type of cancer I have is destructive to bone and a large tumor was discovered in the top of my right humerus. The bone was strengthened with a titanium plate and screws. This was done Dec ‘18, checked last Dec and no future appts are scheduled. I can lift my arm to a point that’s just short of straight up since the device has to go up into the joint. I’ve not been on anymore treatment medication as of the end of last year. I’m on my treadmill 90 min a day getting between 5-6 miles. Question is, will any of this limit my chances of taking a refresher and passing a physical, or should I just give up the idea altogether?
@ Robert K
Never give up on a good idea. With some supporting medical documentation and a medical release from your doctors you should be fine, if all else is within normal ranges and limits. Good luck.
Thank you for the reply. I’m not one who gives up easily. There will be appts every few months to monitor blood and urine for signs of any problems. These could be stretched out to yearly. I will disclose this to the physician giving the physical.
I have a driver who is taking Xarelto for Hx of DVT. What are the DOT regulations for this drug/condition please.
Thanks in advance
@ Company Nurse
The condition which the medications are being taken for will cause the most questions. Your driver is going to need a medical release form and supporting documentation to give to the DOT/FMCSA examiner. He will need all the information available to assist in his/her decision making process.
I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis a few years ago. I take no medicine and have no loss of motion. I’m wanting to get my CDL but before I go any further I wanted to get an opinion before going any further. I have strong grip and no pain. Also avascular necrosis in my knees that doesn’t affect my day to day and forget it’s there to be honest which is why I ask as an after thought.
@ Michael B
Your diagnosis will raise questions, but if the condition does not interfere with the ability to perform the duties of a CMV operator, you could be fine.
Thank you.
I wear a leather lace-up non-hinged Arizona Brace on my right ankle. I work for the Post Office in California and drive 10 miles a day on the job. Can I do a driving test at the DMV or is there some other means where I could obtain permission from the DMV to drive with the brace on?
@ Richard S
You are not a class A license holder and do not fall under FMCSA guidelines. Check with your local DMV for your best answer.