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Home » Q & A about DOT Physical Requirements » Extremities and Trunk

Extremities and Trunk

musculo-skeletal med

 

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Q&A

I have a hernia. Will this disqualify me from passing a DOT physical?

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?

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?

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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Comments

  1. John says

    May 4, 2023 at 11:23 am

    Had right ankle ligaments repaired
    Will this effect passing dot physical

    Reply
    • Trucker Docs™ says

      May 5, 2023 at 8:15 am

      @ John
      Only if there is enough restriction in movement to limit your ability to safely operate a cmv would it be an issue.

      Reply
  2. Jason says

    April 28, 2023 at 5:27 pm

    Can you maintain your Cdl class A with a fused right ankle? May have to have it done in the future

    Reply
    • Trucker Docs™ says

      April 29, 2023 at 7:25 am

      @ Jason
      It will depend on how restrictive your mobility will be (fused and rigid) and how it effects your ability to safely operate a cmv.

      Reply
  3. Michelle says

    April 3, 2023 at 5:00 pm

    I have had my CDL since ’07 and it is still in good standing. I now use a cane because of bad knees, but that does not prohibit me from driving. However, when I went to take my DOT Physical, I was informed, without even seeing what my limits are, that I would not pass. Is this legal?

    Reply
    • Trucker Docs™ says

      April 4, 2023 at 7:31 am

      @ Michelle
      DOT/FMCSA for a class A cdl, interstate driver, you can have no restrictions or limitations in your ability to perform the duties of a CMV operator.

      Reply
    • Daniel P A says

      April 28, 2023 at 7:01 pm

      Can I pass missouri dot physical with drop foot

      Reply
  4. Mel J says

    March 23, 2023 at 3:24 pm

    I am a below the knee amputee. What documents do I need to pass a DOT Physical?

    Reply
    • Trucker Docs™ says

      March 24, 2023 at 9:08 am

      @ Mel J
      Lots will depend on the class cdl you carry. Less than class A interstate, you fall under your states requirements and guidelines. Best to check with your local DLD first.

      Reply
      • Daniel P A says

        April 28, 2023 at 7:02 pm

        Can I pass missouri dot physical to drive a truck with drop foot

        Reply
        • Trucker Docs™ says

          April 29, 2023 at 7:19 am

          @ Daniel P A
          It will depend one the class cdl you have. Class A falls under the federal DOT/FMCSA and is more strict. Lesser class cdl’s fall under the states guidelines and variances, less restrictive.

  5. Shane says

    March 20, 2023 at 1:09 pm

    I have perminent peroneal nerve palsy In my fight leg that causes drop foot and some neuropathy pain. Does this disqualify me from obtaining my DOT certification?

    Reply
    • Trucker Docs™ says

      March 21, 2023 at 6:51 am

      @ Shane
      Only if it disrupts your ability to complete the job requirements of a commercial motor vehicle operator.

      Reply
  6. Don G says

    March 6, 2023 at 10:33 am

    I had 2 toes amputees can I still renew my physical card

    Reply
    • Trucker Docs™ says

      March 8, 2023 at 9:55 am

      @ Don G
      The CME will have to make this decision based on his findings.

      Reply
  7. Shari T says

    February 22, 2023 at 3:24 pm

    Does having a colostomy bag disqualify you from a recert

    Reply
    • Trucker Docs™ says

      February 24, 2023 at 10:00 am

      @ Shari T
      No, but you will need to provide supporting medical documentation and a medical release form from your doctors.

      Reply
  8. Chris W says

    January 29, 2023 at 8:39 pm

    How do I find a Dr. That will do a performance evaluation? I have called almost every Dr in Houston Tx and they all say they don’t do that. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

    Reply
    • Trucker Docs™ says

      January 30, 2023 at 10:32 am

      @ Chris W
      Try your local commercial drivers license department, they should know who does performance evaluations in your area.

      Reply
    • Cgs says

      February 19, 2023 at 11:09 pm

      U can do a follow up at the er they sen u to the right suggestions

      Reply
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