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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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Would I be able to pass wearing AFO braces?
@ Shawn
It will depend on the class cdl you are testing for.
For class A, it will be determined by the medical examiner. Lesser class cdl is under the states guidelines and variances, so check with your state DLD.
I had colon surgery in October for what was stage one cancer. My surgeon cleared me for returning back to work with no restrictions after January 1st. My dot card expires in December. Is there anything I should be aware of before I try to get my dot card renewed. I am on fmla which expires in mid January
@ Chuck
Once fully released to return to work, go for a new medical card and get a copy to the state ASAP. You should be fine, if all else is normal.
I broke my right leg on the job and am on workers comp at the moment, it has been 6 weeks now and my health card is expiring, I passed my dot physical but won’t certify me because of the leg, it is healing, will I lose my cdl because of this.
@ James S
Most cases, no. The states have procedures that would allow for situations like yours. Check with your local drivers license department (DLD) for their process.
I’m a class A CDL driver from KS off on medical after RCR surgery that failed I now face reversed Shoulder replacement. Is this going to Disqualify me? Thank you
@ Jolena
If the final shoulder repair does not negatively effect your ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle, then you will be fine.
Can you pass an exam if you are right- handed, but have a tear in your left rotator cuff?
@ AC
If the tear does not influence your ability to operate a CMV safely, then you may get by.
Can you pass a DOT physical if you only have one arm
@ Donny
For a class A, over the road (OTR) driver, it is possible. It will require a skills performance certification though. A lesser class cdl falls under your states guidelines and variances.
If a commercial driver has an appendectomy, what is the recovery time and should that driver be medically cleared by DOT physician before returning to work?
@ Cheryl P
Just a note from the doctor clearing the driver to return to work. Then a new medical certification examination before returning to driving.
Can I drive with a pinched nerve in my neck that can cause severe stiffness if I turn my head?
@ Sharon V
It would not be advisable to do so.