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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 recovering from an ulcer on my foot. The doctor has put a small portable wound vac on it to speed up healing.
Will I be able to pass a dot physical with the vac on? It doesn’t interfere with normal driving or walking.
Trying to figure it out as my card expires 1st week in January.
@ Jason
For a class A cdl, you may have to wait before you can do the examination. That will depend on the CME and his/her findings at the time of the exam.
I have painful trigger fingers across the width of both palms of my hands.
Would I be disqualified for a medical card if I can’t pass the “grip” test until I’ve been successfully treated and/or had surgery and recovered from trigger fingers?
@ Jeff C
For a class A cdl, yes. You would be best to have the condition treated and corrected before doing the medical physical.
call recently had shoulder surgery and cannot raise one arm all the way up like I can the other. Can I pass a DOT physical not being able to raise both arms up over my head?
@ Randy
Class A cdl medical examination is going to require the ability to raise the arms to a functional level for the safe operation of a cmv.
I had distal bicep surgery on my right arm, can I return to work once the doctor releases me to drive over the road.
@ Will
You will need a new medical card, once fully released to return to driving.
What is the wait time after arthroscopic knee surgery to get my medical exam for my cdl
@ Karen
Just a medical release and a new DOT/FMCSA medical certification examination.
I have a disc herniation in my lumbar. I’ve had it for years. Will I be able to pass a DOT physical? State is NJ. Looking to drive for Amazon doing local deliveries
@ John
Depends on the class cdl you have. If you can perform the duties of a cmv operator, then you may be OK.
What pld or dlp on bottom right corner of physical card ?
@ Michael p
CLP, commercial learners permit. CDL, commercial drivers license. No idea what a pld or dlp are.
My dot is coming up and I have a cast on my left arm for tendon problems. I know the dot officers are fine with it but would I pass. I am in Oklahoma
@ Brad
It will raise questions. The situation will need to be determined by the CME as to whether you should do the examination now or wait until cast comes off. DOT/FMCSA for a class A driver, you may need to wait until the cast is off.