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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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Can I pass a DOT physical using a cane because of back pain.
@ James B
Not the cane, but the back pain will be the issue.
If you fail your DOT physical, can you continue driving on your unexpired card from the previous year while seeking a second opinion?
@ Sue
Technically, no. Your results were entered into the federal data base. If no one checks it out, you may get away with it. But DOT stops you ???.
Can you pass a physical with Venous insufficiencies in both legs.
@ Kathy
It will depend on the severity and any limitations you condition present.
Last yr had both hips replaced and knee replaced naturally I have slight limp I have till november to take physical to reinstate my class a cdl doubles triples tanker will this disqualify me I dont currently drive but also dont want to give up my cld have had it since 1988 thanks for ur time
@ Eric M
You should not have any difficulty with this.
Will a bad hip disqualify me? I can walk fine just have a limp.
@ Dewey
The medical examiner will have to make the final decision on this. If you can still perform the duties of a cmv operator, you should be OK.
I’m waiting for dot physical appointment, I had both knees replaced last year in NY, this is my first attempt for class B cdl in florida. Should I be worried about passing?
@ Peter
A class B license fall under the states guidelines and variances, so make sure the examiner know you are going for a class B and not a class A. The states guidelines are different from DOT/FMCSA and are a bit more lenient.
I am out of work on FMLA because of a back injury. I’m am scheduled for surgery on my spine in July. There is no way I can pass a physical now, but I don’t want to lose my CDL. Thanks for direction.
@ Zack Z
Check with your local drivers license department and explain your circumstances. They should have a process in place for situations like yours.
Can you drive a big truck with numb foot and toes
@ Mary P S
Best to find the cause of the numbness and have it corrected, if possible. If the condition is being caused by a neuropathy, then there is an underlying condition which will be questioned by the CME.