Please read through the Q&A before posting a question. This will help everyone to not have duplicate questions. Thank you!
If you still can’t find a related answer, then you are welcome to
ask your question in the comments section below.
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)
Can’t Find An Answer For Your Question?
If you have a question that you feel has not been answered, scroll down to the Questions and Comments box and post your question.
- Before posting, please make sure you are on the appropriate Category page, so that relevant questions and answers can be found by other drivers too.
- To save us all from zombie spammers, your question will not appear on this page until it has been approved.
- Trucker Docs™ will answer your question as soon as possible.
- Visit this page again soon to see our response.
P.S. Your email address will not be published.
Your comments are also welcome.
I am on workers compensation due to an at work accident with my truck. I have to get both shoulders operated on. I have gotten one surgery already. My DOT Physical is coming up. Can I get a physicians note to postpone my physical?
@ Joseph S
Just check with your local drivers license department (DLD) for their process. It will be the state that needs the note explaining the situation, not federal DOT/FMCSA.
Had right ankle ligaments repaired
Will this effect passing dot physical
@ John
Only if there is enough restriction in movement to limit your ability to safely operate a cmv would it be an issue.
Can you maintain your Cdl class A with a fused right ankle? May have to have it done in the future
@ 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.
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?
@ 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.
Can I pass missouri dot physical with drop foot
I am a below the knee amputee. What documents do I need to pass a DOT Physical?
@ 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.
Can I pass missouri dot physical to drive a truck with drop foot
@ 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.
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?
@ Shane
Only if it disrupts your ability to complete the job requirements of a commercial motor vehicle operator.
I had 2 toes amputees can I still renew my physical card
@ Don G
The CME will have to make this decision based on his findings.
Does having a colostomy bag disqualify you from a recert
@ Shari T
No, but you will need to provide supporting medical documentation and a medical release form from your doctors.
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.
@ Chris W
Try your local commercial drivers license department, they should know who does performance evaluations in your area.
U can do a follow up at the er they sen u to the right suggestions
I am currently on workers comp for a work related injury. My left leg was shattered at the knee last June. I am receiving PT 3X a week and have been put out of work until the end of March, but it will be at least the end of summer before I can go back. My DOT medical card expires February 6th. I won’t pass right now because of my leg. Is there an exemption/waiver/hold I can get for my DOT because I have a work related injury and am not driving?
Thank you!
@ Addina
Just notify your states drivers license department of your situation. They should have a process in place for someone in your position.
what is physicaly checked during the extremidies and limbs physical? is this a regular physical that i have to be naked?
@ chris a r
No nakedness.
I have had two shoulder surgeries, and 4 hand surgeries to release trigger finger on six fingers, as well as repairing Dupuytren’s contracture. I have had all of the necessary rehab done, and have been released completely by my dr. Will this disqualify me from getting a cdl? Thanks.
@ Dave
If there are no restrictions or limitations which hinder your abilities to operate a cmv, you should be fine.
Can I get an extension on my DOT physical due to delays in doctor appointments?
@ David
There is no such thing.
I have had both shoulders arthroscopic surgery a lower lumbar fusion on the spine with plates and screws I’ve had a fusion of my neck with plate and screws. I’ve had two hernias at the waistline one recent repaired does this disqualify me from driving tractor trailer
@ William A M Jr
None of these by themselves or combined are a disqualifying factor. If any of these create limitations in your abilities to operate a commercial motor vehicle, then there may be restrictions.
I have a CDL B license in the state of Michigan with a current DOT card that expires in 5 months. I had total knee replacement surgery 9 weeks ago and my doctor has given released me from his care and provided a back to work slip. Can I continue under my current CDL card or do I need to re-certify my medical card before I return to work? And if I do need a new card do I need to wait a specified amount of time?
@ Robert B
Your cdl falls under your states guidelines and regulations, not federal DOT/FMCSA. Check with your local DLD. For class A cdl holders, once fully released, you would need a new medical card. Not sure at the state level. Once fully released, no waiting period.
I had a total left hip replaced. I passed my DOT physical. I had a Full release from my Doctor to return to work. The MRO said that he would not give me my medical card until I was post-surgery 90 days. I told the MRO I never drive I have a class A because of the safety sensitive part of my job. I am an Operations Manager. Can this MRO contradict my Doctors complete medical release.
@ Jeffery
I will assume that MRO (medical review officer) is being used to mean the CME (certified medical examiner) who performs DOT/FMCSA medical certification examinations.
The CME has to abide by DOT/FMCSA guidelines and regulations, which your medical doctor does not. There is only a guideline here to wait for 90 days, if the CME feels that there may be some level of risk to you and the public at large. Seems that your CME is being overly cautious and is not hearing what you are saying as a non-driver. But DOT/FMCSA is more strict on class A drivers than any other class cdl.
I had shoulder implant surgery and my arm does not go all the way up will that effect my dot medical card for a class A CDL or how far does the arm have to reach up?
@ Calvin
If the limitation does not interfere with your ability to perform the duties of a class A cmv operator, you should be fine.