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Q&A
What are the hearing requirements for a DOT physical?
Can I get a DOT medical card if I use a hearing aid?
What are the hearing requirements for a DOT physical?
The driver must be able to perceive a forced whispered voice in one ear, the better ear, at not less than five feet with or without the use of a hearing aid. If the driver fails the whisper test, the medical examiner will refer the driver to have an audiometry test. The driver must pass an audiometer test before the medical certificate can be considered.
I’m a CDL driver and my concern is I’m getting hard of hearing as I get older. If I’m unable to hear a whisper at 5 feet, will I be unable to drive a commercial vehicle? Is there a waiver I need to get? What do I need to do that will allow me to continue driving?
All you will need to do is get hearing aids and the examiner will indicate you need to wear your hearing aids to pass the DOT examination. This does not place a time restriction or limitation on your DOT certificate and you won’t need an exemption.
Can I get a DOT medical card if I use a hearing aid?
Yes, as long as you can perceive a forced whispered voice in one ear, the better ear, at not less than five feet with or without the use of a hearing aid. If you use a hearing aid for the DOT physical, then you must wear that hearing aid and have it in operation at all times while driving. Also, you must be in possession of a spare power source for the hearing aid while driving.
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I am totally deaf. I do have cochlear implants but they stopped working years ago and I have decided to not have them fixed. My question is can I still get a CDL? Is there a waiver I can get from the DOT for a totally deaf person to pass the DOT physical and if I do then can I also have an interrupter with me to take the skills testing exam portion of the CDL
@ Kelly A
All cdl’s are state issued and must comply with your states guidelines and regulations. Check with your local DLD for guidance, they will take you through their waiver process. Make sure you ask about the interrupter for the skills testing.
In Texas if you have a hearing a restriction on your medical certificate and get a new medical certificate and don’t have one can you send it in
@ John
Do you require a hearing aid to pass the DOT/FMCSA medical examination or do you have a hearing restriction on your license? If yes, then you will need to return to the examiner and have him correct the error. Also, the state may have questions too, if you send your copy in and they do not match.
with rechargeable hearing aids what is DOT requirements for those. replaceable batteries had to carried with you.
@ Dale A
Just make sure you have a recharge system in the truck at all times. That should satisfy DOT/FMCSA.
If you failed only the hearing test but you have some hearing aids how do you go about being retested
@ Mike
If you are returning to the same facility, then they may redo the hearing test only. But not all facilities will work with you on this issue. Some may require a full medical examination again.
I wear hearing aids how come on my dmv printout its says no freeway driving
@ Anthony V
DMV printout would be state issued, best to check with your state for proper guidance on this.
I have unilateral hearing loss. I can hear very well in my other ear. Does heavy vehicle prevent me from getting a license?
@ Mehmet c
For a class A cdl medical certification examination you must be able to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet. Unlike vision which requires both eyes individually and together, hearing is different and any ear will do.
only one side of the ear is severely lost, in this case, it doesn’t seem possible for me to get a driver’s license, is it true?
@ Mehmet
Not true, see answer above.
I really want to get a driver’s license. I can’t get clear information about whether the unilateral hearing loss of a truck driver’s license still prevents me from getting a truck driver’s license.
@ Mehmet c
As long as you can hear a forced whisper at 5 feet, then you should be able to obtain your medical certificate for a class A cdl, if all else is within normal limits. If your limited ear can be corrected with a hearing aid, then the examiner may report it on your medical certification card. But you would still pass the physical.
How can I obtain a DL 51B form to apply for a California Intrastate medical exemption?
@ TonyH
Your medical examiner should have this form already for you. If not, Google, type in DL 51B, then download pdf and print the sections of the form you need.
do you have to have a restriction on your physical drivers license for wearing hearing aids in the state of Colorado
@ Thurman P
Each state is different. Check with the Colorado drivers license department for your best answer.
I have trouble with the whisper test, even with my hearing aides I can hear them but cannot make out what word or number most of the time. I not only have hearing loss but tinnitus also. Does the dot require that I hear the pronunciation or just be able to hear the whisper.
@ Don T
If a women is preforming the test, you will have difficulty due to her higher frequency voice. Ask if a man can perform the test. You will need to hear and repeat what the examiner said.
DOT Recognizes Deaf and Hard of Hearing Truck Drivers! Anyone with hearing issues should look into this. Great agency working for the hard of hearing.
In a historic victory for deaf and hard of hearing truckers, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) announced today, after decades of prohibition, that deaf drivers can operate commercial motor vehicles such as large trucks. Today, the DOT granted 40 applications filed by the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) seeking exemption from the hearing standard that has barred deaf drivers from obtaining commercial drivers’ licenses (CDLs). In announcing this historic decision, the DOT cited research demonstrating that deaf drivers are as safe as hearing drivers.
You must repeat what is whispered. You are allowed no closer than 5 ft. They are supposed to whisper from your side. NOT FROM BEHIND AS THEY ALL DO. If you fail you lose your job. Few will give you a break. You should be able to get a waiver. But the wait can take months and same for the renewal. Submit your renewal pkg. at least 3 months in advance of expiration. The pkg. will consist of copy of 3yrs. Of driving record, med cert., front and back of your cdl, a written request poss. More. There is a well hidden link called hearing exemption renewal procedure on the internet. And no ..FMCSA from Washington DC to the field offices had no clue. I had to discover this myself . They were clueless if you could even get them to answer the phone or emails. They don’t tell you about the three month submission pre expiration except in the link if your lucky enough to find it. They will send you a stack of worthless links(maybe). Per national association of the deaf, This is institutional discrimination and prejudice.In short, the medical examiners, the FMCSA, your employer, and the cops are bound and determined to end your career if you don’t hear that exact word or number or get that waiver.
@ Ron A
Don T could have a hearing test performed by an audiologist and take the results in with him on the next DOT/FMCSA examination, too. That could help save his job.
So, I wear hearing aids, and my boss and I submitted information to FMCA….they responded saying it can take up to 180 days. In the meantime, my medical card expires on July 7….and that is WITH a 3 month extension…. what are my options
@ Shannon S
You do not need a hearing waiver for a class A medical card unless your hearing is less than adequate to pass the medical examination. if you can pass the whisper test with your hearing aids in place, then all the medical examiner has to do is mark that you need to wear your aids while driving.
My examiner was wearing a mask. Can I ask to try taking the test again without her wearing a mask?
@ Dave G
Ask if a male can do the test. Male drivers lose the female voice frequencies early in life, so a female behind a mask would be difficult at best for any driver.
I am unable to pass the whisper test even with hearing aids. The center had me do an auditory hearing test & made me remove my hearing aids prior to the test. I failed again. Seems like taking your glasses off for the eye test. Is removal of the hearing aids a standard for the auditory test?
@ Rich S
There is no need to remove your hearing aids for the DOT/FMCSA hearing test. If a female is the examiner, then ask to have a male perform the test on you. Most men lose the females higher frequencies early in life.
I barely passed the forced whisper test at my DOT physical. I wear a hearing aid in one ear but can’t hear a thing in the other. How do I apply in advance for the waiver prior to my next exam.
@ Ben C
You do not need a waiver as long as you can pass the forced whisper test with a hearing aid in your one good ear. Since men lose high frequency sounds, like a women’s voice, try to get a man to administer the whisper test.
When I pulled one of my drivers driving record, it stated he must wear a hearing aid. This restriction just popped up recently. He DOES NOT need hearing aids, and has tried numerous times to have it removed. He even presented his DOT physical, and no where does it state that he needs ant type of hearing aids. Any suggestions will be helpful…
@ Kimberly R
It’s a state thing, so unfortunately you have to deal with the state drivers license department.
If you dont pass the whisper test, what are the actual numbers needed from an audio test to be considered passing? I had a test done and it actually said passed as the results but the doctor said my numbers were too high.
@ Lorne
DOT/FMCSA requires a hearing loss be less than 40 db., and/or corrected with a hearing aid.
Hearing in my left hear is at 92%, hearing in the right ear is 28%. I have certification from the audiologist. In AZ, can I keep my CDL with yearly hearing tests?
@ Muchele S
Yes, there should be no issues.
My medical card expires 04-24-20. When can I have a physical? And will the new expiration date be from 4-24-20?
@ G W K
You can take the examination at any time before the expiration date. The medical card will be dated on the date it was done and not 4-24.
I have an employee who is hearing impaired and will not pass the dot requirements showing . The FMCSA has a waiver form for the hearing impaired which allows them to obtain a CDL . In the state of New Jersey will this be ok for him to still obtain his CDL. He needs CDL for a upgrade in pay.
Thanks Jimmy
I have Cochlear implants in both ears and hear fine when wearing them, but I cannot hear without them, can I still attend CDL schools and obtain a class A license?
@ Lucas B
Yes. Your medical card will indicate that you must wear your hearing devices at all times while driving
What is the restriction code for when a driver must wear hearing aides?
@ Tamara D
If hearing aids were used to pass the medical card certification, then the aids must be worn at all times while driving.
I have to renew my medical certificate shortly and now I have severe hearing loss in my left ear but my right ear is ok, can I still pass the medical exam in the state of New Jersey using aids or just get by with whisper test on my good ear and does it require a medical doctors approval to have the test administered this way. thanks
@ eddie d
Just use your hearing aids and you should be fine. It will be marked on your medical card that you are to be wearing hearing aids during driving.
been almost 3 months since i went in for my renewal of my medical certificate the one that did the exam only gave me a 90 day certificate due to her saying my blood pressure was high,so she put me on medication and have been getting my blood pressure rechecked every 2 weeks by a nurse who tells the one who did the exam who issued the prescription when this all started she said that i would need at least 2 readings under 140 to get a 1 year certificate well have had at least 2 readings well below 140 so now i get told i have to make an appointment to see the one who issued the first one and pay for another exam ,is this the case or am i just being given the runaround by the clinic as a way for them to get another $120.00 thank you
@ Brian F
CME’s are not supposed to be prescribing medications. They are to perform the DOT/FMCSA examination and if issues arise that require medical attention, then you should have been referred to your primary doctor. And yes, a new DOT medical certification examination is required by FMCSA.
So are you saying a provider who provides primary care for an individual cannot perform his DOT if the provider is certified to do so? And does that patient have to make another appt if he needs attention other than DOT?
@ Jennifer L
Any certified medical examiner on the FMCSA registry can perform and issue a federal medical certification card. And, you would need to confirm the office policies regard additional services other than DOT.
If you have a restriction 11 on your CDL, does that restriction also apply when you are not driving a commercial vehicle?
@ Ralph M
Your best answer will come from your states DLD.
Can a hearing aid specialist give audiometric test to meet CDL requirements in illinois.
@ Linda
Yes, take the results to the CME. The DOT examiner may still perform a whisper test to confirm the overall findings.
Hi My question is how many weeks can you get a hearing aid result from an audiologist before going to the actual DOT physical examiner? Thanks
@ Greg M
The closer to the DOT examination the better. And the CME may still perform the whisper test to confirm the need for the hearing aids.
I went to get new fed-med card passed everything except the hearing and was denied my card. Hen I arrived and filled out the forms I stated I wear hearing aids and brought a copy of my hearing test from an audiologist that showed my hearing loss. They still stuck me in the both without my hearing aids and surprise I failed. Then dr. comes in and tells me that I can’t get a new card because of my hearing so I said that’s because the nurse tested me without my aids in so the dr. does the whisper test with my hearing aids and I pass that but at the end of my exam I’m told I can’t get my card . Reason hearing . And they listed my hearing aids as sound amplifiers. I don’t understand this
@ Robert P
If you pass the hearing test with your hearing aids in, then you should have passed. Get a second opinion somewhere else.
Did you get the hearing aids through the audiologist or amazon?
Why should that matter if he can pass the whisper test? Do they hold wearers of vision aids to the same level of scrutiny? “Yes, you passed the vision test with those glasses, but we need documentation from your eye doctor.” That never happens.
I am a Public School bus driver who has recently been diagnosed with Meniere’s Disease. I have heard conflicting tales of whether or not this will disqualify me for a CDL. I am aware and have ample warning of an oncoming attack. Is there criteria for Meniere’s as a disqualifying disability or is it cut and dry? Or is (fingers crossed) this not considered to be a disqualifying disability?
@ Glenda M
You are a school bus driver and you fall under the states variances and guidelines, not FMCSA. Check with your local drivers license department for your best answer.
im hard of hearing in both ears and i barely passed forced whisper in one ear. failed in the other. ive ben tryn to get hearing aids but my insurance doesnt cover it. its $5000 for both ears. $2500 for one. i cannot afford either. im stumped on what to do. amplifiers are useless. if i cant get one i loss my job? is there a law about providing employees with disabilities the equipment to do there job? i got a family to support. if i spend the money on a hearing aid i wont be able to pay my bills nor feed us.
@ Don s T
FMCSA wants you to be able to hear a forced whisper, in at least one good ear, with or without a hearing aid. Make sure a man does the forced whisper test. Females have a very high frequency vs a man’s lower tones, even in a whisper.
Does the hearing aid have ro be prescribed?
Can it be store bought?
@ Gino
If it is needed and works for you, then your good. It does not have to be prescribed, but it’s helpful.
That’s the question and answer I was looking for, I failed the whisper test, she was wearing a mask and also cover her mouth with her tablet, I have Hues Aidion Hearing Aids that aren’t prescribed and I hear really good with them, they gave me a 6 month card 2 weeks ago, I still going to see a audiologist just in case, if he says the ones I have will work, I’ll use them when I go back. Thanks for all your information.
The regulation states you have to carry back up power for the hearing aid in your possession. What if you’re hearing aid is rechargeable not battery powered? Some of the new ones are going to a charging station at night while you sleep as opposed to a replaceable battery.
@ Jared
That should not even raise a question by an examiner.
My job does not require a CDL only a regular license in California but it does require all drivers to pass DOT physical. I am profoundly deaf. California DMV says they have no hearing exemption from the physical because the job only requires a regular license. FMCSA says the same. How do I pass the DOT physical then? I have been sent around several times and no one seems to answer my question. Please help.
@ Darryl
Your standard driver’s license should already indicate the need for a hearing aid. That is all the CME needs to know, then he would mark the same thing on the medical card. Explain that you are not a class a, otr driver, and that you fll under the state’s licensing variencies.
The standard license does not require a hearing aid. Deaf people can drive without a hearing aid. I cannot hear with a hearing aid either so it would not help.
Again, the job does not require a CDL but requires a DOT phsyical test because of the weight of the trucks they drive. FMCSA, however, provides hearing exemptions only for CDLs. It just does not seem to make sense.
@ Darryl
Then explain your driving duties and make sure the examiner understands the FMCSA regulations, as well as your states variances. Then you should not have any issues.
If I have a class a cdl. I need to wear hearing aids to drive a professional truck at work. My question is if I am driving my personal car, do I have to wear my hearing aids? Deaf people can drive their personal vehicles!
@ Steven O D
True, but as a CDL class A driver? Most states would require you having your hearing aids on, if stopped.
i have taken a audiometeric hearing test and i’m well below the standard needed to pass the hearing exam. if i opp not to purchase hearing aids at this time what will happen at my next DOT test date.is the Doctor where i had failed the hearing part of the test required to notify Dot that the test was not passed
@ Wayne M
Each federal DOT examination performed is reported to the FMCSA.
Regular nurses that give tests, are not specicalist, doctors want you to fail, because they all sell aids. even if the place you go to, is not a regular business, they still sell aids on the side. The clinic that you’ve gone to, might not even no that they are selling aids on the side.
Have had my CDL for 38 years, 35 years accident & ticket free so, went to California DMV to turn in my physical. Missing 4 fingers, two on each hand and been driving this way for many years but, I still was nervous about Doctor clearing me. I was able to pass his hand use test. Have also started wearing hearing aid for the last year just to help me hear better not because I am death. Passed the whisper test at 8 ft. Doctor passed me with no limitations for 2 years, but DMV decided they know better than the DOT Doctor and are mandating that I take a driving test. No not for missing half my fingers but for wearing hearing aids even though my Doctor passed me. This DMV here in California has decided I need to drive with a qualified tester around town hoping to find a first responder with sirens going or a train crossing to see if I can hear it. I asked and purposely clarified it wasn’t my missing fingers or my eye glasses I wear, and they said no. its strictly because they must add hearing aids to my license requirement like my glasses I must wear and, if I pass this driving test they will not allow me to drive out of state and requalify every year. How can a ride along tester possibly know more than a Physician when it comes to site or hearing? I could have understood the drive test for the missing fingers maybe but hearing? Any suggestions on how to avoid this test drive? I am not presently employed so I have no vehicle to test in and was just looking to find a part time job shuttling trucks around to earn money for this crummy unaffordable health care system we have.
@ William B H
Welcome to the republic of Calif. It seems to be a state thing and not FMCSA, so we have no guidance to lend here.
Why do people still say “DEATH” when they mean “DEAF”???
Can you keep your cal with a cochlear implant
@ George
As long as it allows for proper hearing and raises no safety risk, you should be fine.
I drive for adm trucking. I have cochlear implants and passed dot physical.. it all good.
My husband got tested and needs a hearing aid but it’s gonna take some time to get a referral to a specialist my question is if he can just go buy a hearing aid himself and get tested? He already paid the dmv and we don’t have that much time to wait for a referral and then an appointment that might take months.
Thank you
@ Bertha
As long as he can hear a forced whisper at five feet with his hearing aids in, then he would pass the DOT medical examination. FMCSA is not concerned as to where the hearing help came from, but he must have them with him and use them during the examination and it will be noted on his medical card that he wear them while driving.
I took the DOT exam in California and heard the whisper in my good ear but not in my bad ear. They asked if I had hearing aids, I did but barely use them since I can hear so well in my good ear. I had an audio gram that showed I have the required hearing in my good ear but the doctor said he couldn’t pass me since I’m completely deaf in one ear. Now I have a one year certification requiring hearing aids. Should I have passed without hearing aids? If so, where can I get a valid second opinion? I haven’t worn hearing aids and am not used to them which is why I’m asking. Thanks for taking the time to review my question.
@ J O
You should have passed, not sure why you only got a one year and the need for the hearing aids is useless unless it improves your hearing. Valid second opinions should come from any other CME on the national registry or check for DOT Physical Doctors in California.
I took the DOT exam in California and heard the whisper in my good ear but not in my bad ear. They asked if I had hearing aids, I did but barely use them since I can hear so well in my good ear. They gave me a one year certification and required that I wear hearing aids. I haven’t worn hearing aids and am not used to them, am I able to ask for a second opinion?
@ J O
Yes
The Chiropractor said I passed the forced whisper at 5 feet hearing test out of both ears. But he said I had a wax buildup in one of the ears. He said he could not pass me because of this, even if I passed the hearing test part. I had to pay extra for him to flush my ear. He said it was because the ear drum was partially occluded. Is there a such a thing, or if you hear the forced whisper you pass?
thank you
Mike
@ Mike
Never heard of a chiropractor flushing out ears for a DOT examination. If you passed on the one hand, then you passed. Ear flushing is not a part of the DOT examination. So ???
A number of our guys are getting 3 month cards due to sleep apnea, is the hearing test required each time?
@ Justin
Your guys are being taken advantage of by someone who does not understand the FMCSA rules, regulations, and guidelines. Yes, hearing test is done each time you are tested.
What if I am deaf in left ear?
@ Tommy
As long as you can hear a forced whisper at five feet with your right ear, you will do fine on the hearing test.
What if you can hear the forced whisper and pass the DOT test but a previous audiometric test says you cant hear in one ear, which is legit and which is taken as legal, when the whisper test turned out fine and you the driver now has a medical card but the driving is put on hold due to the previous audiometric test?
@ TLE
Hearing a forced whisper at anything greater than 5 feet with only one good ear will pass a DOT medical certification examination. There should be no hold, unless the request is only for the CME’s documentation requirements.
I have a FMCSA hearing exemption that expires soon and I cant find out how to renew, any ideas. There is no information on the paperwork or their website, I have sent many messages and left many messages on their voice mail with no response. I cant pass the test even with a hearing aid due to ringing in my ears. I can hear fine when looking at someone or talking on the phone but cant distinguish voices behind me.Im running out of time and need my job. thanks
@ Tom
Check with your local DOT examiner and see if they have a local list of SPE examiners. You will probably need a new SPE examination to acquire the new hearing exemption. FMCSA does not seem to be very available for these types of things anymore. Also check with your local drivers license department and see if they have any information available too
I am completely deaf in one ear however the hearing in my other ear is excellent. Will I be able to keep my CDL if I pass whisper test on only one ear ?? If you only need to pass one ear than why do they test both?
@ Mike
Perfect hearing in one ear will pass the DOT medical examination. Why test both, confirmation as to whether a hearing aid would be beneficial.
I’m sorry, I didn’t realize you meant posted Q & A by readers. My question is answered.
I really do not understand why an ambiguous word like PERCEIVE is used, instead of the straightforward word UNDERSTAND…typical government doublespeak!
And yes, it is BS, as others have said. For safety, a driver needs to “become aware of” sounds around him/her. To “hear” a whispered word, but not to understand it, is all that should be required for safety. Understanding is irrelevant! A person driving with the windows up, A/C running, and music turned up loud wouldn’t hear an ambulance siren in the lane next to him/her.
-kn
I may be late in this question but I think I can explain “perceive”. In my classes we are taught that perceive means to not just hear the sound, but to understand and know what it is, especially with speech. People can hear someone speaking and not understand it and this creates huge problems.
They must hear it and know what they are saying.
Yes, as long as you can PERCEIVE a forced whispered voice in one ear…
What does the word perceive mean?
Definition:
1.
become aware or conscious of (something); come to realize or understand.
Become aware of is not the same as understand. A person can become aware of the “forced whisper” (whatever that is), but not understand what is whispered.
Thank you for your interpretation of this for me, -kn
Class (8) vehicles all have led warning lights on there instrument panel, to put this another way, you don’t need a perceived whisper to drive safe, however you do need good vision. I’ve been driving class 8 trucks for 53 years and have no violations to date as of this posting, my hearing has been compromised due to early class 8 trucks that had very little noise abatement protection, moreover the, (American hearing association) an advocate for the the hearing impaired, concluded drivers with hearing impairments are among the safest drivers. In conclusion I think most drivers in any category are safer because they have their eyes on the road not hearing loud music on the radio !
I am a school Bus Driver in the State of Indiana. I have lost 100% hearing suddenly in 1 ear. Am I leagal to Drive Bus. I have 100% hearing in the other ear.
Been CDL B driver for 20 years in Maryland. Moved to Florida late 2015. Diagnosed with Meniere’s in right ear in Oct. 2016. Had the Microwick procedure performed and ringing in ear has cleared up. DOT doctor said that because I was diagnosed with Meniere’s, that there is a possibility that I could get Vertigo and he must revoke my DOT medical card and CDL license at this time. Because of this, I will lose my job. Have not had an issue at anytime with Vertigo.
You need to make sure that you were diagnosed with Tinnitis( ringing in the ears) and not Menieres.
What is the deal with this whispering hearing test, that’s the biggest bunch of crap I have ever heard of. The only people that whisper are the trouble makers. When in the hell when you’re driving to do hear a truck horn whisper or a car horn whisper even a train how about an ambulance or cop car even your wife doesn’t whisper, this is the biggest bunch of BS I have ever heard of. Talk in a normal voice and everything is fine!!!!!!!!!
ever wonder if they whisper something an they didn’t to trick cdl driver to get medical help to use us like test animals I know these people make harder for americans easy for imigrants to drive in us
As a CDL holding Truck Diver for 40, I have had hearing lose where I have had to have hearing aids for the last 30 years. I noticed that I was not hear as well with hearing aids in. Went in to have an audio test for up grades. This is what they found my right ear has a speech discrimination of 40 with an average decibel loss of 83 and my left ear has a speech discrimination of 60 with an average decibel loss of 85. In the retuned info issue/contention statement says “Individual Unemployability” never heard this before went to DOT and State Patrol and they can’t give me an answer as to what I can do from here. Does this mean that I’m done as a CDL Driver? Thanks for your assistance in this matter.
@Bob
With your hearing aids in, can you hear a forced whisper in at least one ear? If so, then you still pass the DOT medical certification examination. If not able to hear a forced whisper then you might want to check into intra-state only driving. That would put you under the states variances and not FMCSA.
Trucker Doc,
I can hear that some one is talking but can not decode about 35 to 40% of the words. Have to move with in 2 feet to under stand most words and lean good ear to person talking. Thanks Bob
@Bob
Is this with or with out hearing aids?
Yes with them in!
@Bob
It appears that, based on your answer, that you should check into either a hearing waiver from rhe Federal DOT, or intra-state driving. Intra-state puts you under the states variances and not FMCSA/Federal regulations.
Force whisper is not allowed aided. Aided requires that when tested wearing your hearing ads you have to have a pure tone average of 30dB or better in one ear and 85% discrimination or better with hearing aids in and at 65dB in sound field presentation level. So you either can purchase stronger hearing aids to pass the requirements or consider obtaining a cochlear implant which when tested you should pass after implanted. Most Audiologist give you a 30 day trial period so you would have the opportunity to see if the stronger hearing aids will help pass the testing before considering the implant. The implant is not a quick fix it is a surgery and the implanted device that takes months to acclimate to. If you cannot afford new hearing aids I suggest contacting Vocational Rehabilitation services for your state. They help in these matters.
I am 35 years old and have a commercial driver licence. I was born with only one ear (left) and am hearing fine. My concern is if I can drive a commercial vehicle.
You will be fine as long as you can perceive a forced whisper at 5 feet in your good ear.
On the whisper test i could hear the doc but could not repeat what she was saying. She had a heavy accent. My question is do i just have to hear her whisper or do i have to be able to repeat what shes whispering.
@Michael
You need to hear and comprehend what is being said. Unfortunately most women have a higher pitch than men and it is a bit more difficult to fully understand what they are saying. See if you can have them repeat in a little deeper voice, that would be a big help.
Can you please provide a DOT definition of “perceives”, “forced whisper”, and “average hearing loss”?
Thanks
@Steve
You need to hear and comprehend what is being said. Unfortunately most women have a higher pitch than men and it is a bit more difficult to fully understand what they are saying. See if you can have them repeat in a little deeper voice, that would be a big help.
I disagree with this answer. The rules states “perceive a forced whisper” not “perceive a forced whisper and comprehend the word being whispered”
An audiometric hearing test does not expect a CMV driver to comprehend what the tone means, and by the same token, neither should a forced whisper test. Adding progressivly stricter and stricter definitions to the word “perceive” is a typical form of age descrimination.
Can you still pass a dot physical of you are be treated for an ear infection / ruptured tymphanic membrane?
@Ian
Once you have healed from the injury/infection, you should be OK.
My husband has the understanding that if he gets tubes in his ears it will make him unable to drive a school bus anymore. Is this true? If so, why? It will help his hearing, and won’t negatively affect him in any other way that I’m aware of.
@ Chrissy P
We believe he has been misinformed about his situation and how it effects his cdl.
Can a driver have a dead ear in one ear and essentially normal hearing in the other and still satisfy the DOT requirements. Also does a CROS/BICOS hearing aid system satisfy DOT requiement for this type of hearing loss.
@David
One good ear is all that is required to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet. Hearing aids are also acceptable, if needed.
Hello: I have a Texas CDL and I work for a School District and I have had an extensive Hearing Test Performed in 2012, I received Hearing Aides. But they have short circuited from sweating profusely so am no longer able to wear them, would this be a Safety Issue for my District? I have 75% Hearing Loss in one Ear and 50% loss in the other ear. I work around loud noises all day every day. I am concerned as to whether or not I am safely transporting children to and from the Schools without them. I live in Texas
@Ralph
DOT is going to be looking for a hearing test that allows you to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet. Now that can be with or without hearing aids.
If you need hearing aids to pass the test, then it should be mandatory for you to use them when transporting children. But each state is different and if you are only driving school bus and do not have a class A drivers license, then your best bet is to check with your local drivers license department and see what your state rules regarding hearing are.
I passed the 5ft forced whisper test. The examiner signed my new certification card, but will not give mre the certificate until I produce the results of my hearing test with hearing aids in. Is this legal?
@Mark
If you passed the whisper test, then why would you be restricted to produce a new hearing test? But if the CME feels the need to have you tested for further information, then he has the right to do so.
The 5 whisper is not valid test, hearing doctor said how do you know 40 decibl each person talk different levels and they aren’t in sound proof booth. How do you gage whisper at that sound level. You can’t not valid hearing test , most wont pass with hearing aids in . Not sound proof and each person talks at diff. Highs and lows, same even whispers. No one can gage it at 40 decibl. This is bad test I know 20 years truck driving. Hearing aids 10 years driving semi. Never did I pass 5 feet whisper .test. always hearing doctor test.. booth..take that test with you to do dot. Clinic show you passed with hearing aid . no 5 feet test Read people it says and, or. Hearing doctor or 5 feet not both one or the other you give that to clinic they dont do the 5 feet whisper you got your test from hearing doctor they send that in with dot long form . No waiting you are good.. read on hearing test “or ” you pass one dont do both for hearing test read carefully. See, and or not both.
I wear hearing aids may I take the hearing test with my hearing aids in in the audio booth test.I can not pass the whisper test
@David
FMCSA wants you to able to hear, so hearing aids are fine. You will need to have the examiner mark ‘must wear hearing aids’ on your medical certificate.
They will not allow me to wear hearing aids for audio test. Can they do that? Thank you
@David
During the testing phase they may request no hearing aids to complete the initial test. And after the test they should determine that you need them and make the recommendation that you wear hearing aids whenever you are driving.
Passed the DOT Physical with my hearing aids in. But they only gave me a one year cirtification because of my eye glasses and hearing aids. I’ve had both for many years. And I’ve always got a 2 year cirtifacation. So what has changed?
@Gerald
Nothing changed, so I would ask what other issues where present that reduced your certificate. If all else was normal, then you should have gotten a two year card.
If you are concerned about not being able to pass the “forced whisper” test. then apply for a hearing exemption that the FMCSA issues. This started in Feb of 2012 with 40 exemptions issued and now have over 300 exemptions issued. The exemptions can be renewed up to every 2 years. Please see: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/medical/driver-medical-requirements/driver-exemption-programs
Plan ahead, obtaining an exemption takes about 6 months if all paperwork is filled out and provided correctly. Once an exemption is issued, bring it with you when you go in for your medical examiner’s card and you’ll be exempted from the “forced whisper” test. You MUST keep the hearing exemption on you at all times. If you are not sure how the process works for the hearing exemption or if you have more questions, you can contact me. I would be more than happy to help you. Please get the word out, share this information! So many professional drivers are losing their jobs needlessly.
i have hearing aids and i have trouble with the whisper test on the dot med exam, i have talked to my audiology teck At the vet administration) and informed me the whisper test is unfare do to the many different levels of sound tones. what do i do as i need my driving job.
Many hearing doctors say the whisper test is totally unfair to many. I agree. A high percentage of people have trouble with noise behind them and certain voices.
It is NOT supposed to be behind you but beside you. It’s still a bunch of crap, but at least this may help.
Hi I am glad I found your comment on getting the forced whisper exemption waiver. Can you tell me how I get the form and if I can call someone to find out how to get it. I had a terrible time trying to get my physical passed even though I have hearing aids and had my audiologist give me the chart showing I passed it and a letter from her and the medical examiner was really being a jerk. After checking with someone else she must have realized my hearing specialists opinion and testing trumps hers and she had no choice but to pass me. She was really out to fail me. I am wanting to get this before I try again next year. I would appreciate any info on how to apply for the exemption waiver. Thank You
these exemptions are only good for interstate driver not intrastate drivers
All of you references are to “hearing” a forced whisper. You don’t specify being able to understand what she said. I could “hear” that she was whispering just fine, in both ears, I just couldn’t understand what she said. I couldn’t “understand” the 3 words that she said, so she failed me.
Is this correct, or should I have passed since I could easily hear her?
@Ken
See the answer in the Comments right below – for Jamelle on Dec 19, 2015. This should give you a good reference for how the test is being administered.
Sorry to be such a pain in the tuchus. You clarified that the tested ear should be turned toward the whisperer…I did not realize that (my back was to her).
My question was: do I have to understand the words or numbers? You used the word perceive, which means discern, recognize, become aware of… I easily perceived her whisper, but could not understand what she said. I probably could have perceived her whisper at 10, and even 15 feet.
BTW-I am going to an audiologist today, but I feel that the test method and results should be clarified better to the examiners.
Thanks again for your time.
If your audiologist can document that your hearing is below an averge of 40 decibels.. 34 in one ear, 40 in other ear, for average of 37 you passed. you need to be below 40 no matter !
I have had CDL hearing tests ever since they changed to CDLs.I moved to Kansas and still drive part time.The examiner has to be elligable to give the test.Every test I have been given in all those years they simply ask,”can you hear me”.This lady whispered two short words and even tho I answered correctly she insisted I tell her what she said.I could not distingwish the words.She failed me.I assume the hearing test to to alert us to sirens,train whistles,car horns an such.I when to another examiner,he whispered “can you hear me” and I passed.Problem is I had to pay out of my pocket the cost of two examines.
I have read that Fed guidelines state that a whisper test should be given with the ear being tested turned towards the Dr. My test was given with Dr standing behind me. . Was this a legal test. I did fail the test.
@Jamelle
The test is to have you hear a forced whisper at five feet or better in at least one ear. Not sure why someone would want to play games with this simple test. If you feel that the test was done unfairly, then get a second opinion or have an audio test done by a professional and take the results back to the examiner. Also if the examiner is a female, men have more difficulty hearing high pitch sounds. Have a male administer the test and see if this makes a difference.
They always turn around or make us turn around, and whisper as low as possible such an unfair test.ohio
I drive tour bus in Indiana I’m deaf in my right ear but have a hearing aid in my left ear. Will I be able to get my dot physical next year
@Jim
Should not be an issue if you can hear a forced whisper at five feet with your good ear and the use of your hearing aid.
https://nad.org/issues/employment%20and%20vocational%20rehabilitation/Commercial%20Driver's%20Licenses
I am deaf in my right ear but hear fine out of my left ear. With the new guidelines will I pass the d.o.t. physical in Texas if I can hear the forced whisper?
@Scott
FMCSA requires that you be able to hear a forced whisper in at least one ear, so you should be good to go.
Thank God I just had ear surgery and haven’t regained my hearing in one ear
Can I take a Michigan DOT test if I am completely deaf?
@Carolyne
Each state has different rules and regulations. So check with your state Drivers License Department-DLD, and see what they have to say about your situation. Contact information for Michigan.
What is the formula for calculating an audiometer test, to DOT standards?
@Sherri
There is no formula, just testing standards from the FMCSA guidelines.
I failed the whisper test wearing hearing aids and when they performed the audiometric test they had me remove my hearing aids so naturally I failed that also. I am in the process if getting new hearing aids. Will a audiometric report from my audiologist showing my hearing correction with new hearing aids be acceptable to get certificate. Or can the doctor doing physical do an audiometric test on you while wearing hearing aids?
@Lee
If you go in with the report in hand, you should be good to go.
I thought that to,but when I couldn’t understand the forced whisper they just gave me one yr on my card
@ Kevin
Did they also recommend the use of a hearing aid? Forced whisper done by a female examiner is much more difficult to hear than when done by a male examiner.
What is the qualified reading from the test from the audiologist in il. I had a hearing test today but the gal couldn’t tell me what the IL standard is.
@Ross
FMCSA wants a five foot forced whisper understood. Now that can be with the use of a hearing aid. If you want to know about what your state parameters are, you’ll need to check with your state DLD.
Was wondering, I only have one hearing aid, do I need to have two hearing aids?
@Caleb
Not if one allows you to hear without any problems.
Make sure you carry a spare set of batteries.
Went for DOT physical and failed hearing test. I went to Audiologist and confirmed that I require hearing aids. If I am unable to rectify the problem before my present DOT medical card expires. What would happen to my NYS CDL license ? I am presently out of work from my employer until it is rectified. Can I postpone the physical with an expired medical card? And for how long?
@Vito
Your CDL license is separate from your medical certificate. So you should be able to get your hearing situation rectified and then get a new medical certificate without worrying about your CDL. But check with your state to confirm that you have a window between medical certificates.
I live in California, and have a Medically restrictive Class B. license, for a vision issue. ( for the vision restriction I need at least 20/40 vision combined in both eyes, mine is at 20/25 in case your wondering).
For the past 8 years I have been slowly losing my hearing. And so I wear hearing aids when I am at home sometimes. On March 16, 2015, I failed both whisper test without my hearing aids, and and an audio-gram test, with my hearing aids on. I had them turned down because of a feed-back issue, I passed with my left ear failed with my right ear, he laughed and told me that I was as deaf as a post in my right ear and so I failed my hearing test. OK that is the history, here is the question. Why is he applying a Non-Restrictive Class B Commerical hearing requirement, to a California Restrictive Class B License with a Medical Waiver? Already in place?
@Bob
Not real sure why they would have failed you.
FMCSA states that if a driver can pass the hearing test, with or without the use of a hearing aid, in one ear, then he passes the examination.
Best bet is to question the examiner. One ear hears OK with the use of a hearing aid passes the test.
I just failed my whisper test. The “doctor” did not speak in a forced whisper, and I could barely hear him in a regular voice. This test is insane. Whispering could not generate more than 30 decibels, but a car horn is above 100. What is the rationale behind this silly test? I know my hearing is not perfect, but I can converse on a phone and talk to most people if they speak in a normal voice. Paying a fortune for hearing aids is crazy.
Update: Today, after failing the hearing test administered by two more doctors, I passed using the audiometric test. Humans are inconsistent – machines don’t lie. Shop around for a price – I was quoted $90 by one hearing place, but only paid $19 today for the same test. The doctor today was also cheaper, and more professional. He also passed me on the eye test (which an eye doctor had done yesterday). I would be careful of these “truck stop” docs in the future.
At my recent physical I was NOT given the whisper test first, they just used the testing device that measures to the 25 decibel range. I failed the test because of a head cold I had at the time. I have gotten over the cold and am hearing just fine but now they are telling me that Federal guidelines say that if I fail the test initially I must see an audiologist and pass a test with them before I can get my medical card. If this is true and there are no provisions allowing for temporary hearing loss because of a head cold these regulations are laughable. My question; Is it true that I must now see an audiologist?
@Mike
This is not a regulation/law, just a guideline. If they won’t provide you a re-test then go somewhere else.
Does the person taking the CDL hearing test need to know the words that are whispered or just know that something was whispered and where the whisper is coming from?
@Jessica
In most cases the examiner is asking a question or making a statement that requires an answer.
how do you obtain the fmcsa waiver for the hearing requirements to maintain a cdl license in pennsylvania
@Eugene
There is no FMCSA waiver program for hearing.
You might want to double check on this, because after doing some reading I have found that they supposedly have an exemption for deaf drivers so they can get their CDL, as of about September 2014.
I’m sorry Trucker Docs, but this is incorrect. FMCSA are indeed issuing hearing exemptions. This actually went into effect in Feb. of 2013 with 40 exemptions initially issued. That number has now increased to more than 300. Please see: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/medical/driver-medical-requirements/driver-exemption-programs
Can I pass the hearing test wearing an amplifier? I lost my hearring aids and use this to hear the TV better.
@Angie
If your amplifier does not interfere with the operation of a commercial motor vehicle, then you shouldn’t have any issues.
I do hearing test and see driver that have passed a forced whisper test but can’t pass an aurio metric test to qualify with a 25db loss in the good ear. Why is a whisper test excepted as a good test to drive but to get a job with the prison sysyem there has to be and audio metric test.
Because that’s the way FMCSA says it ought to be. Check with them.
Is there any requirement that states a driver must wait 3 months after getting a hearing aid before he can be certified?
No, there is no wait time.
At the DOT physical exam you must be able to meet the hearing requirements with your hearing aid.
I have a bad infection in my good ear, hear better from ear that does not pass exam. Am i legal to drive?
@Jon
If you can not hear a forced whisper at five feet from either one or the other ear, then you are not legal to drive.
what if you wear the hearing aids and you’ve already told the audiologist you have to pass but still fail, then what recourse do we have.
This is a setback, as the gentleman said earlier this is our liveihood
@ Rudy
The basic test for hearing is a forced whisper at five feet. Your hearing aids with new batteries should help you pass. Also, if a woman administers the test, you may be missing her speech because you are not hearing high frequencies. Have a man with a lower voice do the hearing test. If all that fails, then you may need to check with the FMCSA regarding the hearing waiver, it’s somewhat new. I don’t have any experience with this yet, so FMCSA will be the go to guys here.
I passed the audiometry test and they still would not give me a dot card because of wisper test!! How do i go about getting a waiver! I’ve had a very safe driving record for 30 plus years!
@jimmy
If you passed the audiometry test, I do not understand why they would want to do a whisper test. The first test over-rides the second test.
But you could check with the FMCSA about the hearing waiver.
I went to take my physical, had trouble with the whisper test. I wear my aids all the time, but could not pass the whisper test this time. Is there a waiver form I might get to be able to get my card. This is my livelyhood and my only source of income, surely there is something that can help me with this issue. I am scheduled for a hearing test with my ear doctor, is there something he could do as to help in this matter, respectfully, Dave T
@David
Before I resorted to a FMCSA waiver, I would followup with your hearing doctor and let him know that you need to be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of five feet or better. If he is unable to get you to that point, then there is a hearing waiver from FMCSA. I am not sure how long the process takes to get the waiver.
Can you be deaf in one ear and still pass the DOT physical?
@ A H
Yes. As long as you can hear a forced whisper at 5 feet in your good ear, you will pass the DOT examination. If you need to use a hearing aid, make sure you are wearing the unit and that the power source is operating normally.
Thanks for the question. Trucker Docs