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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 am having back surgery in October and my CDL physical is due in October. What is the process to keep my CDL.
@ Chris
Get with your local drivers license department and explain your situation. They should be able to guide you through their process.
I have had a neck fusion and lost a great deal of range of motion to my right side. Am I still able to drive Class A
@ Kelli M
It will all be determined by the CME. DOT/FMCSA requires at least 45 degrees of motion in each direction.
Can a peron drive their on semi truck back to their home town even though they tested positive on a drug test
@ Cecil
If your license has not been revoked by the positive test results, most likely you can driver your own semi, not under load, home.
If I was injured at previous job do you my back but DR restriction says sitting job and on workmans Comp can I still get passed threw a dot physical
@ Matthew
You can not pass a DOT/FMCSA medical certification examination. Once fully released, without restrictions or limitations, you can go for the medical card examination.
I had an elbow tendon repair in the past 6 months and was released from my surgeon to my current employer. How will this affect me for the next position I apply for regarding needed documentation? Will I need to request for another declaration of release for a future job?
@ Chaz b
If you are a class A driver, then you need a new DOT/FMCSA medical certification examination before returning to driving. Only then will you need return to work documentation. And it needs to be without restrictions or limitations.
I’m looking at getting a hernia surgically repaired, is there any FMCSA specified length of time before I can return to work?
@ Brian P
Just a full medical release to return to work, without restrictions or limitations. Then you will need a new DOT/FMCSA medical certification examination.
I recently had surgery on my left elbow to repair a torn tendon. After nearly 6 months of rehabilitation the arm has not reached full strength. The only way I can return to work is with an elbow brace to be worn at all times while working/driving. Can I drive a commercial vehicle while wearing an elbow brace?
@ Brian M
It will depend on the class cdl that you hold. Class A will be questioned in more detail than a class B will. With good medical documentation from your doctor and the ability to perform the duties of a class A driver, then you may be OK.
I had my right knee fused together my leg is straight now can I still drive an 18 wheeler all and gas
@ jimmy s
By DOT/FMCSA requirements, you should be able to perform the duties of the job requirements of a class A driver. That requires the bending of the knee. You will need medical documentation and a medical release from your doctor. The CME will have to take all the information into consideration before making a final decision.
I’ve had a C6 C7 Fusion done. I can only rotate my head only 50 degrees each way. Will I be able to pass a DOT physical?
@ Chris,
If all else is within normal limits, yes.