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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 already had fusion between c4,5,6 now the doctors are talking doing 6 to 7, will cause me to lose my privilege to drive commercial
@ Kevin
As long as you can maintain some level of cervical motion, most of which occurs at the C1,C2,C3 levels, you should be fine. Once you are released to return to work without restriction, take a medical release form and any medical documentation you have with you to the DOT medical examiner. It all helps in their decision making process.
I have a Class B CDL, I was injured at work that required low back surgery. I drove a school bus route 3 times a day and also did trips until August, when I was told I needed surgery to repair my back my boss told me I was unable to drive because I couldnt pass my DOT physical;
my DOT physical expired in August. I am still under the care of my surgeon (also the work comp dr) and going to physical therapy 3 times a week. My boss called me today Dec 4th and informed me I am to return to work Dec 8th to drive 1 route a day because they need help and the work comp dr told my employer I can drive 2 hours a day while taking my meds and not lift over 25lbs.( I have NOT heard from ANY of my drs work comp or other that I can drive. I’ve had a CDL for 16 years and I’m positive I cannot drive without a current DOT physical and being a bus driver my State requires a yearly exam. I asked if the school is taking complete responsibility if “something” would happen. They did not answer. I know if I knowingly get behind the wheel I take that responsibility. I do not know what to do. I know I cant turn down work but I’m not sure what to do.
@ Rachelle
Even with a class B cdl you need a valid medical card. You are not physically able to perform the duties required to pass a DOT medical certification examination. And if something were to happen, it will fall on you and the company.
Hi. I have a foot drop. Will this nerve condition fail me on the dot physical.
@ Steven
Your situation will be questioned extensively and you will need to demonstrate your abilities. The CME may request further information from your neurologist. If the condition does not interfere with your abilities to operate a CMV without risk to you or the public at large, then you may pass the DOT/FMCSA examination.
I am going to have knee surgery dec. 10 and my medical card is due. i will not be recovered in time for dec.31. what do i need to do to save my cdl until i can pass the physical?
@ John a
Let your state drivers license department know about your situation. They should be able to guide you through the process.
Thanks
I have been diagnosed with Spinal Stenosis. I may have to have surgery to repair the issue. Will I be able to pass A DOT physical once healed?
@ Mark
If the surgery is successful, then you should be able to continue driving. You will need a new DOT/FMCSA medical certificate and will need to pass all other sections of the physical examination. Good Luck, we hope it all turns out OK.
I’m unable to locate the specific ruling on Spinal cord stimulation implants. Understanding that opioid meds are an unfit for duty status but what about the implant. There’s surgeon and other doctors providing letters of return to work status with no limitations. Thanks.
@ Heice
It is not just the implant but what caused the need for any medications or implants to be needed. Your CME is going to request medical documentation to support his decision making process. Getting a letter to return to work without limitations is one step, but not a completed process. The surgeons may let you return to work, but they do not have the DOT/FMCSA guidelines and regulations to contend with. Just be prepared for a waiting period after the surgery and you may need to look into intra-state only driving for awhile.
I have a class b. I drive a city bus. Am I allowed to work while under going chemotherapy?
@ Cindy
Your class B drivers license falls under the states rules and variances, not DOT/FMCSA. Check with your states drivers license department for the best answer to your question.
I have Charcot-Marie-Tooth disorder (CMT), it effects my feet and have lost some feeling in my feet and have almost no reflexes in them, was diagnosed at a young age, I got my class A cdl at 18, I’m 22 now and considering having corrective surgery on my feet, it will only help with the pain of walking on the outside of my feet, I’m afraid if I have the surgery they will disqualify me for my medical card and revoke my cdl, any feed back will be much appreciated
@ Cordell D
It’s a tough call. If you do not have the feet corrected, then you may fail due to the inability to perform the duties of a CMV operator. Have the surgery, and you still could fail the DOT examination for the same reason. The surgery itself is not going to be an issue, it’s the ability to perform the duties of a driver.