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Q&A
Who can I go to, to get my DOT medical card?
Can I go to my own doctor to get my DOT physical or do I have to use my company doctor?
What’s the difference between a DOT Doctor and a Medical Examiner?
How long does it take to get my medical certificate?
What’s involved in a DOT physical?
What would cause me to fail a DOT physical?
When I do my DOT physical do I have to get completely naked?
Who pays for the DOT Physical Examination? Me. Company. Insurance?
If I don’t have medical insurance can I still get a DOT physical?
How much does a DOT physical exam cost without insurance?
Why do I have to have a urine test for a DOT physical?
Can I get a copy of my DOT physical form?
How long is the DOT medical card good for?
How many 3-month DOT medical cards can you have?
Is there a difference between a DOT physical card and a DOT medical certificate?
How do overweight truck drivers pass the DOT physical?
What if I’m disqualified – may I request another DOT physical?
What if I don’t disclose a medical condition when I go through the DOT physical exam?
Who can I go to, to get my DOT medical card?
Interstate drivers: CMV drivers who drive interstate, must get Federal medical certificates from a medical examiner who is FMCSA National Registry Certified. (Find a registered CME)
Intrastate drivers: Each individual State makes the determination as to whether or not intrastate drivers must be examined by a certified ME listed on the National Registry. To avoid hassles it’s our recommendation that you find a registered CME.
Can I go to my own doctor to get my DOT physical or do I have to use my company doctor?
This will depend on the company policy. Your company may require you to use their company doctor for your DOT physical exam. If this is not a requirement, you may go to any medical examiner who is certified on the FMCSA National Registry.
What’s the difference between a DOT Doctor and a Medical Examiner?
There is no difference, these terms are used interchangeably. The terms Medical Examiner, Certified Medical Examiner, and CME are now being used since the federal regulation came into force on May 21, 2014. Drivers will not be able to go to just any healthcare provider for your DOT physical. You must go to a Certified Medical Examiner on the FMCSA National Registry.
How long does it take to get my medical certificate?
It should take 30-45 minutes to go through the physical examination. Provided there are no medical concerns the medical examiner will be able to certify you and issue your medical certificate.
If the medical examiner has concerns about a potential, current or past medical condition you may be required to see a specialist for additional medical tests or get documentation from your treating physician. In this case the medical examiner will not be able to complete the DOT physical exam until these requirements have been fully met.
Be Prepared! Find out what you should know before you get to your DOT physical appointment.
What’s involved in a DOT physical?
The DOT physical exam is considered a “Medical Fitness for Duty” exam for the demands of the job required of any commercial driver, not just the driver’s current job duties. The medical examiner’s role is to determine if a CMV driver’s health meets FMCSA standards.
The examining doctor has these two questions foremost in mind when conducting the physical exam:
- Can the driver safely meet the physical and mental demands of the job today, and for the period for which the medical card will be issued?
- Does the driver have any past or current medical conditions, which may impact the ability to meet the demands of the job now or in the future?
The DOT physical is an extensive medical examination to determine if you are qualified to safely operate a commercial vehicle. The best way to understand the DOT Physical Examination is to relate the medical requirements to the demands of your job as a commercial driver. The full extent of these are explained in Trucker Docs™ special guidebook to getting your medical certificate.
What would cause me to fail a DOT physical?
Any condition that would cause a loss of ability to control, operate, or drive a commercial vehicle safely – loss or impairment of limbs, poor visual or auditory acuity, insulin-controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, respiratory disfunction, epilepsy, mental disorder, use of certain drugs, alcoholism.
The DOT physical is an extensive examination. The full extent is explained in Trucker Docs’ special guidebook. Any disease, disorder, injury, or medication could cause you to fail if they present a risk to public safety.
When I do my DOT physical do I have to get completely naked?
No. There is no reason to get naked. Loose clothing will suffice for the examining physician to be able to complete all aspects of the DOT physical exam.
Who pays for the DOT Physical Examination? Me, my employer, my insurance?
There is no set answer here.
Sometimes the driver pays.
Some companies will pay for it, some will not. So check with your company because some require that you use their company doctor.
Some insurance companies treat this exam as preventative health care and will not reimburse for it. Sometimes the driver will pay, and may submit the receipt to their insurance for reimbursement, if the insurance will pay.
If I don’t have medical insurance can I still get a DOT physical?
Yes. You do not need medical insurance to get a DOT Physical.
How much does a DOT physical exam cost without insurance?
Currently we’ve seen DOT physicals charged anywhere between $50 and $300. The new FMCSA Medical Examination Forms (2016) and reporting system have increased administrative work and time for medical examiners, and costs for the DOT physical exam are rising accordingly.
Why do I have to have a urine test for a DOT physical?
The urine test is just a kidney screen to test for sugar and protein. It’s done to determine that there is no early onset of conditions like high blood pressure breaking down the kidneys, or early signs of diabetes, or kidney infection.
Can I get a copy of my DOT physical form?
Yes. As well as receiving your medical certificate you should also get a copy of the long form (Medical Examination Report). The medical examiner is required to keep a copy of these documents for three years. If you need a copy you should contact the medical examiner. Contact information is on your medical card.
How long is the DOT medical card good for?
A DOT medical card is valid for two years if you have no restrictions. A history of high blood pressure, taking high blood pressure medications, a sleep disorder, and taking oral medications for diabetes can restrict the medical card to one year or less, depending on how frequently the condition needs monitoring.
How many 3-month DOT medical cards can you have?
One only. You should have the condition, which caused the restriction, under control by the end of the 3-month window.
With the typical 3-month medical card, you needed to do something to bring some physical condition under control. If you did that, and you go back to see your last DOT examiner, he can issue you a new medical card for typically one year. If you didn’t fix the issue, he can choose not to extend the card. So get the condition taken care of and don’t have to worry about short term medical cards.
Is there a difference between a DOT physical card and a DOT medical certificate?
No. These terms are used interchangeably. They are most often referred to as a DOT medical certificate when referring to the medical card, and DOT physical when referring to the DOT physical exam.
I lost my medical card. How do I go about getting another one? Do I have to do the DOT physical again?
No you do not have to do the physical exam again. The medical examiner is required to keep a copy of the exam documents for three years. If you need a replacement medical card you should contact the medical examiner.
How do overweight truck drivers pass the DOT physical?
Being overweight is not a restriction to passing the DOT physical exam. It is the medical conditions that being overweight eventually leads to, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and kidney disease, that may affect your ability to safely drive a commercial vehicle. That is what the DOT Physical exam will determine – whether you have any of these restrictive medical conditions. Getting healthy and staying healthy is your best guarantee for your life and your livelihood.
Does the DOT physical require a driver to be completely healthy… does that include sexually transmitted diseases?
No. An STD will not affect a DOT examination.
What if I’m disqualified – may I request another DOT physical?
This really depends on why you were disqualified.
Doc shopping used to be what folks did, but that is changing with DOT and FMCSA. If all medical examiners are following the guidelines and regulations, then it would not matter where you go, you would still be disqualified if the same situation exists.
If the disqualification seems unreasonable, and you feel you are truly fit enough to safely drive a CMV, then discuss the concerning condition with the medical examiner, and ask for options that may help you to be reconsidered for certification.
Second opinion: A driver always has the option of getting a second opinion. If the qualification restrictions or disqualification seems unreasonable, and you feel you are truly fit enough to safely drive a CMV, you should find a different clinic to get a second opinion. The new examination decision supersedes the previous examination.
What if I don’t disclose a medical condition when I go through the DOT physical exam?
When you complete the health history section on the long form you must certify that your responses are complete and true. Making a false statement for concealing a disqualifying condition may invalidate the examination and any medical certificate issued, based on it.
What about “shopping” for a DOT doctor who will be “lenient” on the qualifiers for DOT medical certification?
Some drivers used to do “shopping around”. Starting 2016, the FMCSA reporting system with the National Registry will have the capability to flag multiple exams, identify missing or false information reported by the driver in the Driver Health History section of the MER Form, MCSA-5875, and make a determination to void the driver’s MEC, Form MCSA-5876, if appropriate.
It isn’t an issue of lenience. It’s an issue of whether you, as a driver, are safe and medically fit to operate a commercial motor vehicle. It’s about safety for you and the public at large. Do what you need to do to be medically fit to pass the DOT examination and don’t worry about finding a lenient DOT doctor.
Second opinion: A driver always has the option of getting a second opinion. If the qualification restrictions or disqualification seems unreasonable, and you feel you are truly fit enough to safely drive a CMV, you should find a different clinic to get a second opinion. The new examination decision supersedes the previous examination.
Certified medical examiners are now required to understand the role of a commercial driver. The doctor who understands the lifestyle and job challenges of a driver, should really want to help you alleviate conditions that could potentially threaten not only your livelihood, but also your life, and possibly the lives of others if a catastrophic event could occur. So if you need a second opinion, look for a medical examiner who considers the big picture of fit for duty rather than one who does a checklist exam.
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My DOT card was disqualified, my company made me get another physical after i just had one in July and passed because they claim they got me on camera falling asleep which was false. Went to doctor passed the dot test then He says I see your company sent you here because you fell asleep at the wheel. I’m disqualifying your dot card until you have a sleep test of done. Im using a apap machine and now the examiner says i have to use it for 30 days and bring in the stats from those 30 days before i can take my dot test for my medical card again and have it reinstated. Is this true or can i go tui another doctor and show him im Complying and using my machine I actually love it I slept 13 Hours today.
I have a driver that was hospitalized. Is her required to obtain a new physical before he can return to work?
@Ron
Yes, the driver must get a new medical certificate before he/she may drive a commercial vehicle again.
Can a Dr on the national register doing Dot physicals also be your treating Doctor?
@ Tom L
Yes.
Does having a liver transplant one year ago disqualify me for a DOT if I am otherwise healthy?
@ Christine
You will need to bring your doctors release form along with your most recent test results.
If my husband had a bone marrow transplant and isn’t able to get his DOT physical before the deadline, what will happen? Can he put it on hold for a couple of months until he is well enough to get one?
I was disqualified on my dot cdl physical and I feel the Doctor was very wrong. When I go to another approved doctor do I tell them I am disputing my disqualification from the other doctor. And do I have to pay another fee.
@ Richard O’H
Second opinions require time and talent, so it will be very likely you will pay for a second medical examination. The examiner does not need to know you are requesting a second opinion. And you can tell them, if you choose.
Are the new electronic dot medical cards online?
@ Joe B
Not that we are aware of.
I have been driving since 2006 and i have crohns disease. I have always passed my dot physicals with a 2 year expiration. This years the doctors told me that because my crohns disease under new 2018 regulation that ny physical is only good for 1 year. I take an immune suppressant drug and have not had a flare up since 2012. Is this right?
@ Julie
There is no new ruling and the certifying physician can hold you to a one year card, if he feels the need for continued monitoring. Next year try another facility.
A co worker had a DOT physical on 09/28/18 by his family physician who is a CME. He was given a 6 month card due to his diabetic condition which is under control. The company made him go to their CME on 10/01/18 in which he was disqualified the CME said he could hear a heart murmur an EKG was given and showed no abnormalities. The medical assistant did a glucose test which showed a blood sugar level of 469. My co worker was not sent to the hospital for hyperglycemia. My questions are should the company have honered his current DOT physical? I also think there is something wrong with the CME who disqualified him. Being that he discovered a heart murmur that wasn’t detected 4 days prior and a blood glucose reading of 469 and not sending him to the hospital for treatment. Then refering him back to his family physician who issued a 6 month card. He had blood work done prior to his first physical which included A1C levels.
@ Wade
Lots depends on the company policy for accepting a valid medical certificates. It sounds like the company doctor may have a conflict of interest and should have acted in a more professional manner.
I have a current and valid DOT physical card. I am in process of being hired by a trucking company and they wanted me to do another DOT Physical. Do employers (specifically new) have to accept you DOT card? I just passed the physical a little over a month ago.
Depends on what the company policy is. The company can accept your current card or they can send you for another DOT pyhsical.
@ Jon
Company policy. Check with their HR department as to why they would not accept a valid medical certificate.
I schedule my husband’s medical exam each year prior to his CDL expiring. However, the doctor’s office, in order to be sure it gets done prior to expiration, makes it so it is earlier and earlier every year. So, we are never getting a full year out of the card. His card used to expire in the middle of December. Now it is the end of October!! How can we avoid this constant progression?
@ Susan L
You can set the appointment much closer to the expiration date, but we know of no other means to correct the issue.
When a driver fails his med exam, shouldn’t the DOT physician be giving documentation of the failure and the reason, and the subsequent actions ( return in 30 days, etc.).
Our doc is not doing this – simply telling the drivers that they are not passing and to come back after they see their own physicians and resolve the issue. Of course, then their certificates expire, so they are temp suspended anyway, but shouldn’t we have something to cover ourselves for the suspensions?
@ Gayle
Clarify the question and we will try to answer it for you.
I have a driver that would like to quit smoking. I know Chantix is not allowed but is the drug Buproprion allowed
@ Jack P
The medication will raise questions. The driver should be using the medication for more than 30 days before requesting a medical release form from his prescribing doctor. He will need the release form when he goes for his DOT exam.
I failed an initial CDL physical last month because my A1C and Glucose levels were just over the limit. I have recently been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes (non insulin) My PCP has been adjusting my meds and I now believe that if I were to have new lab work done that I would be well under the limit ( it has been 6 weeks since my last lab work). Is there a waiting period to retry for the physical? The doctor at Centra Care did not seem to know the DOT rules and was a bit misleading. She told me 3 months but I feel that is because she thought that is when my labs were due again.
@ Vance
A medical release form from your doctor and thirty days, once he has you stable and your med’s well adjusted.
I went in for my Med card and they had me take a sleep apnea test after the physical. She gave me a 6 month card. It literally took all of the six months to get the sleep study done and have me on a machine for 7 days at my home. At that point I brought the results back to the Physician and they made me retake the physical.. which I easily passed again. She then handed me a 1 month med Card pending the results of one month on the machine at home. Its been a month. I emailed my results which are great and she was happy with them but insist that I come back for ANOTHER physical. This seems ridiculous at this point and the office says its federal but everything I read says its not even a law… Is this normal practice?
@ Joe
Office policy and FMCSA requirement, in the guidelines, would be the culprits.
I am a dispatcher that holds a current CDL . I do not drive anymore but still would like to hold my licences. Do i still need to continue to take these DOT physical to keep licence valid ?
@ George
Most state have adopted the policy of maintaining your cdl with a valid medical certification card. You want to confirm this with your local drivers license department.
My medical card is set to expire in September. Am I able to get another physical with another company and use that card? Or do I need to wait to renew it?
@ Matt
You can redo your medical card anywhere, any time you want.
I have a 19a certificate from RTS…. in Rochester NY, however I just got a letter saying because my DOT physical is up, I am going to lose my commercial license, How can I resolve this? I already had a 19A physical on the July 19th 2018, passed it from RTS, so what is my next move?
@ Jeffrey M. M
You need to contact your local drivers license department to get your best answer, they apparently don’t have the new medical certification findings for you.
My family doctor (who is part of the National Registry) told me a new regulations says that you can’t have your family doctor do your DOT physical that it has to be another doctor. I’ve not heard of this before. Is it true?
@ Randy
We are not aware of any such ruling. If he is on the registry then he is as qualified as any other examiner.
I have sleep apnea, have used CPAP since 2010. To pass the DOT physical to drive a school bus, I must provide a 90-day compliance report. How can I get that information? Lincare is the supplier of the machine, but the location in my area has now closed. I have not been able to get an answer from other local Lincare stores. What do you suggest I can do? Thank you in advance for your help!
@ Debra B L
All we can suggest is that you just keep calling up the ladder until you reach someone in authority.
can I still drive with med card expired?
@ Mike
You can drive, just not legally.
I was just informed from my motor coach company that I have 12 days to get my CDL medical card but I have been on disability with that same company since I fell on their property and February 13th of 2018 how can I postpone my physical without losing my CDL driver’s license
@ Brian L
If you are on disability, you won’t pass a DOT medical certification examination. Depending on which state your licensed in will determine what, if any, time frame you may have between having a valid medical card and a valid cdl.
So I’m wondering what I should do my dot physical card says it expires July 19 2018 but I didn’t get any papers in the mail from dot so I called them an they told me that my dot physical card is good until july19 2019 so what should I do ?
@ Josh
If your medical card expires on 7/19/2019, then you don’t need to do anything. Be aware that you will NOT receive any paperwork reminding you to go get it done in July of 2019, that’s your responsibility.
I’ve had my physical but the examining doctor wants verification from my doctor that I can drive without becoming drowsy. I’ve taken a medication for a few years now and drowsiness is one of the side effects. I’ve taken it for 2 years though and drive fine. My problem is things aren’t happening fast enough. I’m waiting for the DOT doctor to send the paperwork to my doctor and then MY doctor to send it back. BUT My physical is due to run out on the 9th of July and today is the 3rd. Is there any grace periods?
@ TAmmy
Medical cards expire at midnight of the expiration date, there is no grace period according to the DOT.
Nowhere can I find an age restriction for a DOT physical. My boss says you must be 18. Also I’m finding conflicting data on age restrictions for a CDL holder in Minnesota. I have found both 16 and 18 for non school bus.
@ Heather L
The first age restriction will be with the cdl portion from the state, so check with them for the best answer. DOT physical can be preformed on any eligible driver, commercial or non-commercial.
With Type 2 Diabetes how current should the lab work be for A1C? Primary does it every 6 months but DOT physician said it had to be within 4 months?
@ Susan R
The CME is correct and is looking for the most up-to-date documentation.
my brother is in Alaska driving a truck for the summer. He got his physical and has his CDL. He said the Doctor that did the physical called him and was told to inform him that she was not supposed to have given him his physical card as he is over 77 years old. He is 81 but runs every day and is in good health and has been a truck driver all his adult years. Can you please get back with me ASAP on this question as he is waiting to hear what the law is in AK. Thank you
@ Nita R
If he has a valid medical card in his wallet, then he is good to go. Age is not a restriction or regulation of the FMCSA. If he was able to pass the DOT medical certification examination, then he was good enough to continue driving. CME can’t go back and change their qualified/disqualified status after the fact especially based on age.
I made an error filling out my health history section on my paperwork. Can this be fixed without getting myself into trouble? I was rushed while filling it out and it wasn’t until later when i talked to another driver that i found out
I have been doing DOT physicals for a school company
I used to have the drivers complete page 1
their handwriting was difficult to read, made mistakes, forgot some medical contieion, so after a few years, Me and the driver would go over each question and I filled out the paper work.is that ok
to the DMV for our drivers
I have a significant number of drivers who are of different ethnicities
and their handwriting and understanding the questions
Therefore, I would sit and fill out the Page 1 and 2 with the drivers to make sure they understand the questions regarding their medical history.
Page 1and 2 says that the driver must complete
@ christine
FMCSA indicates the need to understand english and be able to communicate in an english speaking domain. If you are simply asking and explaining the questions with the driver, then you’re fine.
My nephew is attempting to get his DOT medical card. He went to a testing center and passed every portion until the examiner asked about drug use. He mentioned he had used marijuana in the past three-four months but was not actively using. He was given some sort of substance abuse form that he now has to get filled out within 45 days. He is about to be out of the country for three months and will be unable to get the form filled. Will he be unable to obtain a medical card upon return even though the 45 days has passed? Can he just take the physical again at another facility or does he have to get the Substance Abuse form filled out and returned to the original facility? Also will he have to pass a drug test in order to get this Substance Abuse form certified by his doctor?
Thanks
@ JM
Just do a new medical examination when he returns state-side.
Can the dot physician require you to show an a1c test
@ Marc
If you are diabetic and being treated with a medication that causes a sugar spill-over, then yes.
What’s kind of drug test will be a given at the DOT exam?
5 panel, tests for thc, cocaine, pcp, opiets, and amphetamines/methamphetamines
@ Jimmy
No drug testing done at the time of the DOT medical certification examination unless the company request a drug screen. Urine testing is for sugar, protein, and blood.
I have a co worker/friend who received Chemo for Colon Cancer, and just recently had tumor removed. He has been cleared to return to work, and has already passed and received new DOT medical card. He will be under going some radiation treatment in the next month or so. once he starts radiation treatment will his loose his DOT Medical card or is he still fit to drive? Radiation treatment will last 30 days.
@ Mark
He will need a new medical certification examination following his next treatment period. Make sure he has a medical release from his doctors and a working prognosis from his cancer doctor.
What is the FMCSA email address to send my completed MCSA-5875 to.
@ Gordon
Your examiner should have already done this, it is not your responsibility.
Is this being done now by the examiner> I was told that that ruling was postponed. Our office downloads them for our drivers and we’ve never been instructed that this was not the proper procedure.
My dad was told that I could no longer have my cdl due to being on dialysis but can’t find where is states this anywhere on medical conditions that keep you from having a cdl. This is for the state of Kentucky
@ Sherry
Class A cdl, interstate driver can not operate a cmv while on dialysis. That is FMCSA. CDL in a lesser class and usually intra-state only, is possible. Check with your local drivers license depart.
If I failed a military drug test 3 years ago, …..and answered “yes” to failing a drug screening. Am I disqualified to get my medical card?
@ Paul
No.
I went and had a DOT physical, my blood pressure was 141/84. The Dr. measured my neck at 21″. The Dr. ordered a sleep study and I have been diagnosed with moderate sleep apnea. When checking in for the sleep study the technician measure my neck at 19 1/4″ and I have not lost that kind of weight. I have asked the Dr. to extend my 3 month medical card and can not get a straight answer from him over the phone. My primary care Dr. does not think there is any concerns with my blood pressure. I am awaiting being fitted for my CPAP machine. Now the DOT Dr. wants a 30 day study and I am 2 weeks out from the deadline on my medical card. What are my options?
@ Jennifer R
The CME needs a thirty day read-out from your cpap machine indicating a 70% compliance. You may be able, maybe, to get a short extension if you can show good compliance for the first couple of weeks. Don’t count on it, but maybe.
I have a driver that is on workman’s comp and has not been released to go back to work yet. He has been gone for two years.
He wants us to pay for his DOT medical exam while he is on WC. Can we refuse this since he is not eligible to return to work yet?
@ Marie
He is on workers comp and will not pass the DOT medical certification examination, so there is no question as to paying for something that is not passable. Once he has been released to return to work, then it becomes a question of company policy as to whether you want to pay or not. All in all it is the drivers responsibility to aquire the medical card.
I’m trying to determine whether ambulance drivers need a DoT physical in the first place. If I understand correctly, this boils down to whether ambulances qualify as CMVs. Any guidance?
@ Brian S
First ask the local DMV for guidance. All ambulances are for commercial use, (they make somebody money) But it is not a class issue, so your local drivers license department should have the best answer.
Thank you for your response. Sorry, but please clarify for me what you mean when you say “it is not a class issue.”
Class as in the class of the vehicle.
@ Gregg
Class of drivers license, ex: class A, B, C, etc.
Does DOT send you a form to get your physical done or do you go do it yourself
I have the every 2 yr physical exam
@ Charles g
It’s a do-it-yourself deal.
I have a question any doctor please help. Woman getting dot exam, is require to remove ur back bra, then the breast to be check, also need the hernia check, is that require by the dot gov to be check. Please help me, need a answer
@ Maria Ramirez-Chan
A DOT medical certification examination requires non of the above for a female driver, unless the CME feels that you may have a hernia that would interfere with the safe operation of a CMV.
I applied for a driving job that required me to get take a physical exam to get my medical card. The Doctor went over the entire exam form and asked me if Iʻve ever used illegal substances and I replied “yes”. The doctor then asked me when did I use illegal drugs and I replied “in 2012”. Finally, he asked what kind of drugs did I intake? And I replied “marijuana”. The doctor then told me that I failed to pass the exam and I now must see a Substance Abuse Counselor and obtain a letter from the SAC stating I am not an “addict”. The first and last time I tried Marijuana was in 2012, straight out of high school and because I answered this question honestly, I have to see a SAC to get my drivers. This is absolutely ridiculous! How true is this? And if this is accurate, where does it state in statute that I must do this. I am not on drugs never have been, yet I have to go through all of this. Someone help me! Thanks!
@ Joe
The CME is following the FMCSA guidelines to the letter, but they are guidelines not regulations. You might try a second opinion.
If a driver gives false medical or incomplete list of pain medications taken and obtains a med card what can be done to report that driver?
@ Bob
Notify the company that they drive for and the examiner, if known.
Does anyone know if we can fold the new dot cards then laminate them since the card is now bigger I want to know if we can fold then laminate so it could be a better fit for the wallets. If anyone can help Thank You
@ Ray
As long as the DOT officer can read all of the information on the medical card with his naked eye, then you should be OK.
How long after taking the DOT physical do I have to turn it into the state? Is there a time limit on the date it was taken and the date you have to certify with the state?
@ Patrick
Basically you want the state to know as soon as possible. If you delay and then forget, you could be downgraded or placed on suspension.
IF you have a current med card that is not expired but this one is just a more recent physical I should be ok
@Patrick
Yes, the latest card will be the one on file with FMCSA and your local drivers license department.
If a driver answers “yes” to question 31, which asks if they have used an illegal substance in the past two years, are they automatically disqualified?
@ Julia
No, it just raises questions that may need some supporting documentation.
I dont need a cdl to drive my cmv but my company wants me to get a dot physical my left eye is lazy can i explain to them my job requirements i have had my driver license since i was 18 and have never been involved in an accident i have no restrictions on my license either but cant read with my eye my vision other than reading is perfect no blurry vision just cant read what do i do so i dont lose my job
I work for a package delivery company. I drive a pkg car and I drive a big rig. Diagnosed with type 2 and my doctors orders can only work day time. I worked 3 months straight as a pkg car driver then all of a sudden I was told to go ‘fit for duty exam’. Doctor deemed me ‘temporarily disqualified’ without doing test. but he said come back ‘when i feel comfortable’. I told him I feel comfortable driving a pkg car but not the big rigs at the moment. should he have given me 3 month card instead? are the rules for CDL class A different than class c? because I know drivers with class c with type 2 that got 3 month card and are driving. I will probably go and try to get re certified next week is that too soon?
@ Larry
Not sure why you were disqualified and yes, the rules for class A drivers are different from a class C license.
What do I do if I lose my Medical Card?
@ Jim
You should have a copy of your medical card and your medical examination, if not contact the examiner and see what their policy is for a duplicate.
Can I reduce the size of the medical card?
@ Bryan
DOT wants to be able to read the entire card with the naked eye, so it is not recommended to reduce the card. See if you can locate one of the tri-folds cards and have your examiner fill it in for you.
Hi pls help I just found out that I have prostate but not cancer , can I still qualify for CDL medical card and continue driving ? Thanks
@ Phil
Prostate what?
Today I failed my DOT med card renewal because centre care (required place for McLane drivers)said they detected a slight heart murmur. My card expires tonight. They say they cannot extend my med card for this like they can for other issues. Is this correct? Gonna take me 3 days to be seen and cleared after echocardiogram
How long after being released from my doctor do have to wait to take my D.O.T physical? After I suffered a double saddle pulomory Embolism.
@ William B
You will need a full release to return to work and documentation indicating that you are no longer a health safety risk, according to the FMCSA. The medical examiner should be able to explain any delays and waiting periods, once he has all of the above information.
@ Glenn L
The CME has the right to withhold a medical card until he has the documentation that he needs to make his final decision.
I RECENTLY TOOK AND DOT PHYSICAL FOR THE FIRST TIME AND WAS ISSUED A MEDICAL CARD, BUT I LATER FOUND OUT THAT I FAILED THE DRUG SCREEN. WILL I EVER BE ABLE TO RETAKE?
@ Dante S.
Drug testing and DOT medical certification examinations are two different thing. You should be able to redo your drug test, once you are clean.
I’m off on workman’s comp for a shoulder injury, and my 3 month evaluation is coming up for cpap. Can I still get a DOT medical card, or am I going to have to wait till I am released by the Dr, and get my Dot physical then, and be reissued my CD? If I don’t get the physical I will be down graded and am wondering if it is difficult to get upgraded back to a class A with hazmat, or will I have to take all the test again?
@ Rodney S
You need to be fully healed and released without restrictions before you can take your next DOT examination. Most states have some type of lenience for individuals that are out with injuries during the examination period, so it should be easy to re-enstate your CDL.
I currently have a good up to date medical card and am currently working. I have an opportunity at a better job but they want a new medical card. since my last physical I have gotten a small hernia that does not bother me. my medical card is still good for a year and a half. If I fail a physical for the new job would it void the current medical card I have? would I potentially not get the new job and get fired from my current job because I failed a physical they don’t know I even took? I live in Idaho, I don’t know if it matters or not.
@ Ricky
If the small hernia does not present with any symptoms then you should do just fine. Yes, a new medical certification examination over-rides an existing medical card.
I just had a dot physical recertification the doctor said i past all the test but doctor wanted me to get and updated sleep test. The doctor didn’t issue me a temporary. Was she supposed to? She to come back with the update results.
@ Tim
If you did not receive a medical card then she is waiting for the new results.
My Employer sent me for a Fit For Duty Medical Certification at their Medical Examiner. The Medical Examiner issued me a 1yr Medical Card. Three months passed and my Employer said my Medical Card Expired. The Medical Examiner gave my Employer a 3 Month Provisional Medical Card that I did not sign or know anything about. Is the 1yr Medical Card I got in her office still valid? My Employer is not allowing me to drive and I may loose my job. I have a CDL Class B license.
@Leen
You should have a copy of your medical card in your possession and if it is signed by you and the examiner, then that is the valid card. The examiner should have a copy in your file also.
Well the Employer terminated me and said they are going by the 3-month medical card the Doctor submitted to them without my knowledge. I asked if they would accept a second opinion from another doctor and they would not answer me. Is there any printable documentation that the 1-year is the valid card?
@ Leon
All the proof you need should be in your back pocket as a copy of a valid medical certificate, signed by the examining doctor.
The medical examiner disqualified me for my medical card because I told her that I fell asleep at the wheel of my personal vehicle & had an accident this happened over 4 years ago. The reason I fell asleep was because of my inconsiderate house mate kept my up all night. I then went to work at my non driving job for my 8 hr shift. On my home I fell asleep. I have been working in driving jobs (non-comericial & commercial) sense then with no incidents. Can I appeal the disqualification on the grounds that the decision to disqualify me was unreasonable because the reason I fell asleep was due to situational circumstances and not medical?
@ Jason
Yes, you can appeal, the matter may take quite a while and the forms are hard to find on the FMCSA website, but it is do-able.
I no longer work for (deleted by admin) Trucking, no longer drive an 18 wheeler, so no longer need a medical exam for my CDL. How can I get this removed so I do not lose my CDL?
Thank you!
Steve E
@ Steve a valid CDL for any reason requires a valid medical certificate or down grade your license.
I just had a DOT physical and was disqualified because of medication I take. I am a cancer survivor from Leukemia. One of the medications I take is to help with memory because of “chemo Brain”. This is also used for Alzheimer’s. My PCP and a Neurologist wrote letters to the DOT doctor telling her why I took the medication and that I do not have any diminished cognitive function. This was not good enough for her. She now is requiring me to have a Neuro physic metric evaluation. The wait period is only 3 months to have that done. So I cannot work until I meet all of her requirements, even though two doctor one my PCP and a Neurologist have both told her I don’t need one. My company said I cannot get a physical anywhere else because she still has an open file on me. Is this true or can I get a Physical from another doctor?
@ Jim
You have the right to have a second opinion from any FMCSA qualified CME. And the company has the right, based on their company policy to accept or deny the findings. They have you between two hard places.
Im 32 years old, never failed a physicsl drug test, never had high blood pressure,no medications never been disgnosed with any ailment whatsover.Driving 12 years Go get a DOT physical and placed on a 90 day restriction pending sleep study based on BMI and neck circumference. Passed physical with flying colors, not on medicstions and had no physical indications of sleep apnea. My employer is telling me they wont honor a 2nd opinion by a FMCSA and that i have to accept and follow up with this DOC? This guilty until proven innocent is unethical and ridicoulous and what options do i have before im forced to submit to such a tests thst have life long ramifications in the event im missed diagmosed. Its from my understanding that everyone goes home with a cpap and appears to be the biggest fraud on drivers and the insurance companies. Im basicslly being forced to purchase an ailment regardless of the fact i virtually have no health issues in sny aspect.
@ Chris
They have put you between a rock and a hard place. You are now dealing with your companies policy and not FMCSA. As we under stand it, you have the right to a second opinion, but your company has the right to accept or deny the findings. BMI and neck measurements are not the standard for requesting a sleep study, so someone is taking advantage of your situation. Good luck.
if you do not pass a DOT recertification does the doctor still report to the state? Or can I still run off my existing physical that has a couple months left on it
@ Sheila
A failed DOT examination is reported to the FMCSA and the state, which then invalidates your existing medical certificate.
I recently had back surgery and my doctor doesn’t want me to return to my job due to the lifting & bending. I’m considering applying for Social Security Disability, but worry that if I’m denied, that will keep me from passing a DOT physical to try to do a lighter driving job.
what is the time frame for A1c test results to still be good for a dot physical. 3 months, 4 months or 6 months
@ Ken
The CME’s would like to see the most recent, 30 days if possible. They may accept 3 months, but don’t count on it.
How do I verify that the medical card was received by the DMV?
@ Trudy
Call them.
Is it the law that I must have my Medical card on my person while driving at work or is it as long as the company has it on file as current?
@ Bill
If DOT wants to see your medical certificate, then you need to have it in your possession.
First I’m in Texas. I have a valid CDL and med card. My med card is going to expire in March 2018. I no longer Drive for a living but would like to keep my CDL. What do I need to do or provide to the DMV to keep my CDL? I have looked all over the Web pages and not found the right answer.
I’m also in the same boat. You have to pay out of pocket at a certified Dot office. The price is anywhere between 50/300 and it will be renewed
@ Shaun
Valid class A drivers license require a valid medical certificate.
is there a way to get a CDL class A license or a truck driving job with out taking the dot medical exam just asking
No.
In my state,NC you can have a CDK without an medical card.But then you are restricted to intrastate driving
Is a digital exam or blood test required for a DOT physical?
@ Thor
No blood test are required and unsure of your ‘digital’ question.
My question is if Dot does not require that sleep apnea is mandatory for a Dot medical card then why can a physician tell you that he is not giving you a medical card unless you have a sleep apnea test done. I only drive a small box truck local .
@ Christopher
You fall under your states regulations and not FMCSA. You are being taken for a ride by some one who does not understand the differences. Go somewhere else for your examination and tell them that you drive local and a small box truck.
will i be drug tested for my two year renewal certificate
@Mike
Drug testing is not part of a DOT physical exam. However your company may request a drug screen.
I have cdl a and have been told I have some heart damage. they want to implant pacemaker and cardiac defibrillators. will I still be able to have a cdl license? if not would I be able to get social security disability?
@ Dave
If you have the procedure done as you describe, you would be disqualified as a interstate class A driver. That being said, you could consider driving intra-state only and be able to maintain your CLD. Can’t answer the ss disability question. Check with social security for that answer.
Trucker Docs, I am not sure where you get your information from, but an ICD (Implanted Cardiac Defibrillator) are DISQUALIFYING regardless if intrastate only or not.
@TheTruthDoc
This may be possible depending on the license class and the state regulations.
My doctor (who has known me for 20+ years) approved my DOT Certification. I am a Diabetic, under control and have driven small trucks for a living for the better part of 30 years. Now, with these so called “Medical Examiners” who are approved (without knowing their patients AT ALL), are telling me simply because I am Diabetic (NEVER an accident or any other issue due to my condition), that I cannot continue doing my job. I do not have time to appeal nor can I afford legal services. I have already lost my home because of this. What am I supposed to do now? This is unfair practice that some doctor who never met me has more say than my doctor who has been treating me for over 20 years. Do I need to now sell my car to hire a lawyer? Help me out folks. I really need some experience, but I will certainly not snub my nose at some simple advice.
Thank You
@Howard
Based on your story we can only assume that you are driving a small local truck. If that is the case then what you need to do is explain to the examiner what your job consist of. Apparently you are being held to a long distance OTR driver standard and he does not understand the difference between federal guidelines and state guidelines. Yes you need a medical certificate, but the examiner needs to evaluate you as a local small truck medical certificate (state guidelines), not an OTR driver.
Thank You Trucker Doc. I didn’t even know there were state and federal guidelines. I thought this was a federal law covering the entire nation. I did not know that State guidelines are different. I MAY be required to cross state lines, will that require Federal certification or state?
@ Howard
A lot will depend on your drivers license classification. Classes other than class A have different guidelines based on your states regulations. Class A licenses falls under FMCSA and are federal guidelines.
I was just diagnosed with the Shingles. When I was a kid I had the Chicken Pox. Thankfully a very mild case at least as far as pain is concerned. My doctor prescribed me Acyclavir and Gabapentin which are medications, one is anti-viral and one is for pain. Also prescribed was a cream for the rash. Will the Shingles affect my medical qualification to drive? I did not see anything in the FMCSA Regulations regarding Shingles.
@ Dale
The pain medication will be the question for the medical examiner. FMCSA has no say with shingles unless it presents with a safety risk to the driver or public at large.
You are not required to tell the medical examiner if you have a cold or the flu. Shingles come and go just like the flu only it takes longer to get rid of them. I wouldn’t say anything about Shingles.
If i do not Have the money to pay for. The dot medical exam because of the lack of financial means. How can I obtain the medical ? is there any possible way to get around without paying imidiatly? Like billing me.
My husband owns a rollback by TN law we are only required to have an F endorsement class d license. We were recently told we are required to have a health card. Is this true? By all requirements I have read states it is required for cdl not for class d with f endorsement. We are wanting to make sure before we get shut down for this reason
Can an Advanced Practice Nurse (Nurse Practitioner) sign a medical release to be presented to a DOT Medical Examiner?
Yes this is true per federal standards
I am a truck driver in Kentucky and do some over the road driving in other states and have had CDL for 10 yrs. I have incontinence issues due to a birth defect and had my prostate remove due to cancer. I am considering having Urinary Diversion surgery to correct this problem. I will have a Continent Stoma installed in my abdomen where I will use a catheter several times a day to relieve my bladder. After a recovery period and a doctors OK to return to work will I still be able to keep my CDL and return to driving. I am 46 yrs old and have a perfect driving record for my 10 years of driving.
Thank You
This shouldn’t be an issue as it should not affect your driving safety.
What weight class requires a DOL Medical Card if person does’t have CDL ?
How soon after You change name on Your cdl,how many days do You have on Your medical card
I have a Class B CDL as a school bus driver for almost 4 years now. I have been ESRD/Chronic Kidney Failure patient prior to hire. I am treated with HHD/Home Hemo Dialysis on 5 or 6 nightly meds (mainly vitamins). I have not urinated in over 8 years. Since the 2018 Physical Exams Guidelines have/are changing, will this be a disqualifier? And where in Kansas can I locate a ME that will sign off as being okay? This condition is not listed 49 CFR391.15. Since I see a Nephrologist monthly can he fill out the MCSA-5876, based on the response listed on FMCSA Part 391.43- Guidance- the ME should have ‘knowledge’ of the condition and the patients ability to function.
Hemodialysis may lead to sudden and unpredictable incapacity related to fluid/electrolyte imbalance or blood pressure fluctuations and is generally considered a disqualifying condition.
This is a very difficult condition to pass a DOT physical. The examiner has to believe that you are safe on the road and this condition would lead any examiner to immediately deny you. If your neurologist can do DOT physicals, have him do it. Otherwise I think you may need to look much further into getting records of your stability. Another question, how can you do in home dialysis while driving?
I have a 56 yr old.driver that is Type 1 Diabetic and has been since childhood. He has controlled it well all these years with his family Dr. and has never gone to a specialist, Endocrinologist. At this time, his job will require him to drive across state lines, yet his medic. cert. will not allow it without a waiver. How does he go about obtaining a waiver when he has no history with a specialist to give him one? His current cert. would allow him to travel across the state without a waiver but not a 200 mile round trip across state line and back.
I work for a large company and I have Dystonia. I also have an FMLA in place for intermediate absensces. My neurologist, primary care doctor, DOT doctor and any other doctor I’ve seen have all said I’m okay to drive and I’ve passed my physicals just fine. Now my employer says that if I miss even just one day of work I have to go to my primary care doctor get a letter from them that I’m fine and get re-certified by the DOT dr.
Can they do this????
Can an employer make it mandatory for its employees to go to a company doctor for a DOT exam?
@Esther
If it’s a company policy, then yes.
I have my CDL to drive a bus and I’m currently not working. I’m taking the year off to spend time with my baby. The lady at my local dps told me that I didn’t have to get a physical that I am exempt. I just want to make sure she’s right so I don’t get downgraded. My last physical was July 2016 and I won’t be working for another year. When do I have to get my physical again? Thank you.
As long as you hold a two year certificate and return for an examination in the two year period, you’ll be fine. Do not let your physical lapse or you’ll have to repeat the licensure process from the beginning.
This past July, for the 1st time in my spouses 20 plus yr driving history, he was told he had high blood pressure during his DOT physical. He passed everything except the BP and was only given a 3 month card and told he had to be on medicine. So, he went to his personal doctor and got a low dose of blood pressure medicine and his readings have been great. However, every time he went to the company paid medical examiner to show them his readings , he was told it was high! Well, today the lady medical examiner gave him another 3 month card even though he passed! I am so upset because I thought that when you passed after the 3 month extension that you were given a year or at least 6 month card? I feel she is playing games. She told him she could only go back to July and so he needs to come back in January. I don’t trust or believe her because I saw on the official DOT site that after passing you get a 1 year card. What should we do?
I recently came out as transgender. I’m scheduled to start seeing a gender therapist. Would this be considered a mental disorder under 391.41(b)(9)? Do I need to check the box for question # 14 on the MCSA-5875 form? Will this condition disqualify me from recieving a med card? If I decided to start hormone replacement therapy would that disqualify me?
I highly doubt any examiner would consider this as disqualifying or even a concern
I have my class C license and was required to take a DOT physical, so I have a medical card. I have now upgraded to my class A CDL, do I need to get another physical? Or is the medical card I have now valid with my class A?
Any DOT physical is a DOT physical. At this point I think your battle is solely with the DMV
We have a driver that is going to be traveling from IN to OH once a week. He will be driving a cube truck that weighs under 10000. IS he required to have a DOT since he is crossing state lines?
@Christi
Anyone who drives for commercial purposes must have a medical card. Crossing state lines, an interstate medical card is required.
Med card expires next month, on disability till Dec. How can I keep my CDL current so I can go back to my job in Dec? I won’t be able to pass physical till Dec.
@JS
Contact your local drivers license department with this information so they can note this on your CDL record and they will tell you what the process is to reinstate your CDL.
I have a current DOT medical health card. i have recently went back to using my maiden name after getting a divorce . How can i get another DOT health card with my maiden on it?
I have had a CDL for many years but when it came time to get my last physical i did not do so but not for any medical condition. I was just extremely busy at the time and wasn’t sure i would drive again needing a CDL.My question do i just go get physical and take it to the license branch and all is normal then?
@Rosalyn
Each state treats the CDL downgrade and reinstatement process differently.
You’ll need to contact your local drivers license department to confirm your status and what you need to do.
I passed my dot physical today but I had a bad month on c pap machine due to a bad mask my hours average using the machine was 3.6 hours instead of 4 hours. I always have slept over 4 hours with my machine. Can I get a medical card extension in order get my average hours back above 4 hours.
@Ron
You’ll need to take that up with the examining CME.
Hi my name is John i am a dialysis patient have been for 29yrs i have been driving patient transport for 12+ yrs i dont make urine therefore my dot drug was done through blood analysis now im being told that dot want except my blood for my drug test n i dont make urine how can i go bout getting my drug test done with my blood my job n lively hood depends on it thank u.
@John
DOT could accept a blood or hair test if you need a drug test.
Qquestion. I have neurofibromatosis. since 8 years old. I have had my CDL for 15 years. I have never had a problem before. This time a new doctor want a neurologists approval before they approve the CDL exam. If NF1 does not effect Driving is it legal for the doctor to require a specialist?
@Mike
The medical examiner can request additional testing or information by a specialist, and if you have not had any issues in the past, go get a second opinion from someplace else.
Do any states, specifically Wisconsin, require drivers to recertify their medical card more often than every two years based on any certain age?
@Butch
Yes there are states that require this. You’ll need to check with your local drivers license department to determine their regulation.
How does my examiner record or submit that ive completed and pass my examination. Do they mail my paper work? If so what do they mail out? do they do it electronically? or do i need to go to my local DMV and submit my documents? If so what documents do i submit? Im in California, Riverside
@Lulu
The medical examiner submits results electronically to FMCSA.
It is your responsibility as a driver to submit a copy of forms MCSA-5875 and MCSA-5876 to California DMV.
See California requirements.
We have a driver who has been off on medical leave for 3 months. His doctor found a benign brain tumor and had surgery to remove. Doctor has said he is ok to return to work and drive interstate. His medical card has not expired. Before he returns to work, does he need to be re-certified on his medical card in order to drive?
@Georgann
Yes.
If I’ve already done a dot medical physical can I turn around and have another one done again if I so choose for what ever reason.
yes you can. the last one you do will make the previous one invalid.
If I’ve had a dot medical physical done this year can I turn around and get another one done before the current one expires.
I need to know the fax number to send a copy of my medical to state of kansas
very sorry i also saw email addy to send in medical card to kansas I didnt kmow you could do that?? I am not sure I have the right fax number Thank you in advance so much.
@Nathan
Yes you may.
Is there a grace period for DOT physical card in the state of Ohio? My card expires 4 days before my scheduled appointment to have my sleep apnea data read.
@Mike
No grace period. You cannot drive on an expired medical card.
As far as downgrading your license, each state treats this process in their own manner.
Get your new medical card on file with your DLD as soon as you have it.
Is there such thing as being grandfathered on getting medical certificate in state of Texas? I have had a CDL for over 40 years and only drive about twice a month on a 4 mile round trip.
@Roy
No, you must have a current medical card in order to keep your CDL valid, or your license will be downgraded.
I just took a DOT physical and there was blood and glucose in my urine , the NP examiner took my current med card and issued a 45 day med card . How do I go about getting back in good standing of at least one year ?
@EJ D
Go visit your primary care physician and get your medical issues under control!
I had same problem do they make you pay for a new card after you see your regular Dr and get it fixed when you go back with your protein normal? Because I’m out of work and this is costing me a fortune No insurance
Most places will make you pay some sort of fee once it is under control. The CME has to take their time to review your records and agree with your records, therefore most places will charge at least some fee. My clinic charges $35
Can I register my physical with the DOT myself? If so, what’s the web address?
@Jamie
Yes, it is the drivers responsibility to get a copy of the medical card to their local drivers license department. Look up your State DLD to get the information.
My husband has a current medical cert but did not take it to the illinois sec of state office. He just received a letter suspending his license. He has the current certificate in hand. When we take it the next time they’re open, will there be a fine or penalties or waiting period? Also, does the suspension apply to his license to drive a CAR or just a commercial vehicle? Thank you.
I’m trying to get non cdl dot physical but doctor can’t approve because I admittingly smoked marijuana 4 months ago. Is that really a reason even though I can pass a drug test now?
@JM
As long as you stay clean and pass a drug test, and you pass all the other requirements of a DOT physical your should get a valid medical card. Make sure that you explain to the CME that you are not a class A driver and you fall under state variances, not FMCSA.
Hi I was wondering if I can go to my on doctor if I was not happy with the doctor my company had sent me to for a Dot phis.my bp read high one time and I had no rest the night before because I drive nights and I had to sit there for 2 hours and I was missing money and my bp went up she trying to put me on meds to bring it down it read 148/98 I have been keeping up with it and the highest it has read was 137/87 and I try to take meds an my bp drop to low it read 87/57 and I tried to tell the woman and she told me to keep taking the med . and I have stop taking the meds. and my Bp has been fine and I want to go to my on doctor to get a second reading on it what do I need to do because she gave me 2 months to take care of it and I can only take it one time.
You have a couple options here. You can just “go for it” and try a second time and ask for the CME to take your blood pressure. However, even a BP of 137/87 is barely passing and during stress your blood pressure shouldn’t be high like that. Driving in traffic is that stressful. So maybe see if you can take a lower dose of the Med because the the lower readings are super low. What type of blood pressure machine are you using? Any automated machine is fairly innaccurate
Yes where can i get the DOT Physical Form alone so my doctor can fill it out to save me the money, shes approved, I believe.
@Sarina
A DOT physical exam / certificate is only valid if performed by a certified medical examiner. And a CME will already have the required forms.
Hi, Is it required for the examiner to perform a hernia test on all males during their DOT physical examination? If one is not performed, but the examiner marks it on the DOT physical form, is this considered fradulent documentation? Thank you for your response.
@Beverly
FMCSA requires this check, and the examiner should be sure that the driver does not have a hernia problem. And, to mark it as done when the check was not done, that would be considered fraudulent.
Hi, I am going to apply for fedex home delivery non cdl box truck/van and will have a DOT physical. Will I fail the physical if I have Bipolar type 2 and also anxiety? I am stable and you would never know I had bipolar however, I’m worried about the mood stabilizer/epileptic drug disqualfing me. I read something recently stating that all epileptic drugs/bipolar meds disqualify you? As far as the anxiety drug I’m switching to a non narcotic before the test. Should I just cancel the interview with fedex? I greatly appreciate any information regarding this.
@JD
You do not fall under FMCSA class A requirements. So get a medical release from your prescribing and treating physicians. Explain to the medical examiner that you’re going to be driving a box truck locally, and that you fall under state variances. Any questions you would have should now be answered by your local drivers license department.
I got my first physical on 5/19/17. My initial BP was 150/80. I was led to believe by the examiner that it had to be under 140/90. They said they would check it again at the end of the physical. That ”
optional” test was 156/102. Of course this was after sitting there thinking that I was not going to be able to get a CDL. I was only granted a 90 day certificate. Now I see that as long as it’s under 159/99 I should have gotten a 1 year cert. Is there anything I can do to appeal/change this? I am working on my BP but meds I have tried have had some nasty side effects. Without meds my DR measured 136/78. For some reason when I go to the medical examiner I’m over 150. I fear I won’t be able to get under the 140/90 by the 90 day mark. Having a year would have been helpful to get this under control.
@Jim
You have 90 days to get this under control on medication. On medication your BP must be 140/90 or under that.
You get only one 90-day card to get this under control.
Take Low dose Asprin or Baby Asprin, 1 a day , about a week before your physical. I normally have normal BP but mine spikes up 20 points when I’m at the Dr. The asprin really helps keep the BP down when you’re having your vitals done…and I always request 3 separate BP readings, cause my Dr is aware of my nervous condition in the office .
Regardless of passing you should be concerned about that high of a reading. Time to start taking a BP Med to control your blood pressure. Go to the doc and get your blood pressure under control
Can a driver pass a dot physical if he/she does not speak English?
@Dr. Z
FMCSA requires in the physical exam / driver’s job description that the driver be able to communicate in English.
My husband is on dialysis and last year (while on dialysis) he passed his DOT and this year they failed him because he is on dialysis. Is there any way around this or is he just done driving til he gets a transplant? The Dr said something about getting a waiver from FMCSA, but what are his chances of getting the waiver? He also has high blood pressure, which he takes meds for and has been for the last 10 years.
@Niki
On dialysis, he is disqualified as a class A driver for interstate.
No such waiver from FMCSA.
You may want to check with your local drivers license department for local driving.
Does the Doctor submit your physical qualifications electronically to the Fed’s or state? Or is the only proof they get from me when I send them my form?? If I get a one year medical card because of high blood pressure, is that info sent to the state??
@Happy Harry
It’s reported to Federal and the state has access to this information.
Thank you. So if I understand correctly, the Fed’s are notified of the high blood pressure?? Also, the next physical examiner would have access to these Federal records as well??
@Happy Harry
Yes, this information is on record. And, you must answer the health questionnaire truthfully. So, nothing to hide, just take care of any condition that may be an issue. Safety is the intention of the medical examination.
if your medical card expires on a weekend, can you pay the renewal first thing Monday morning?
@Keith
Yes, get your new medical certification as soon as possible and make sure you get a copy to your local drivers license department.
I found out today that I have cancer in my right kidney. It is curable but, the kidney will have to be removed. Therefore, I will now have only one kidney. Is this going to be a problem for passing future physicals?
I live in Kentucky and currently only drive a city bus. No longer driving over the road.
@Paul
No it won’t be a problem for driving a city bus.
I took a Maintenance Wakefulness Test and failed. The doctor at the sleep center says that after I complete my 30 compliance with the C-Pap machine I have to complete another MWT before she will release me. These tests are $3,400 each. Can this extra test be forced if the DOT Medical Examiner is only asking for the 30 compliance.
@Ken
30 day compliance on CPAP should be all the medical examiner needs.
How long do i have to renew my medical card? It has expired, I am not currently employed in a job where i need my cdl. I live in Alabama.
@Kevin
Your CDL will be downgraded if you do not have a valid/current medical card on file with your CDL at drivers license department.
So i went for a dot physical. They found traces of blood in my urine. And the dot physician said she wanted me to get a work up or else she was gonna fail me on the spot. So i went to a doctor and they got a sample of urine. They confirmed trace amounts of red blood cells only. No white. Then they did a ct scan to see if my kidneys were the problem. But the scan covered my chest through bladder. The ct scan said everything was fine. So now the doctor wants to run a camera up my penis to look at my bladder. My question is… at what point will dot be satisfied? Do i have to do the camera thing or will the requirements be met at the kidneys?
@David
The CME could be satisfied at the kidney level, but make sure that you get a medical release form from your doctor explaining that they feel there is no need for further testing, if all else is normal.
I drive a pick up truck with a trailer for a lawn service company, I was stopped by the WI DOT yesterday. I’m not required to have a CDL but the office said I’m required to carry a Medical Card. I’m licensed in MI and so is my equipment. We are on the Michigan and Wisconsin state line. We only travel less than 20 miles into WI, do I need a medical card?
@Jordan
Yes. Any time you drive for commercial purposes, no matter the class of your drivers license, you need a valid medical card.
Hello and thank you for answering these questions. I just received my DOT physical and passed. My question is: Do I HAVE to submit the personal medical history that is not pertinent to my DOT physical to my employer? Such as, surgeries (female related) or anything other than eyes, hearing and things that are needed to get the medical examiner card? Can I black out that information on the long form? This seems like a HIPPA violation. And I do not even have health insurance through my employer. I am not trying to hide anything. I just do not understand why they, the employer should have this information. Thank you very much.
@Malinda
The employer can request a copy, if they have a hipaa compliance policy in place to protect you medical information. Otherwise all the employer needs is a copy of a valid medical certificate.
Due to varying work,family issues I was not able to secure a Sleep Disorder test & my time to do so is almost expired,may I request an extension to get Sleep test done. That was only issue with previous DOT Physical Test. I reside in FL
Is cannabidiol,CBD hemp oil legal to take if I have my CDL
@Rahsaan
You can ask, but don’t expect an extention. Just be happily surprised if it does occur.
As an employer do we receive a copy of the long form? If not, can we request a copy?
@Deb
You can request a copy as long as you have a hipaa compliance policy in place to protect the individuals rights and health records.
What legal rights to an employee’s DOT medical information does an employer gain by scheduling and directly paying for the medical exam?
I have had a Commercial drivers lic. since 1976 and only needed a medical card when I was hired. There were a few years when I did not drive but I kept my commercial lic. I did not get a medical card because it was not needed at the time because I was not driving a commercial vech. I renewed with out the medical card and had no problem doing so because if I was not driving for anyone at the time. I would get my medical exam when I was hired. Now it sound like NM and other states want drivers to have a medical card even though they are not driving for someone and may not drive for someone for a year or more. I called the NM state office and the man told me I only needed the medical card to be hired to drive a commercial vech. My question is do I need a DOT physical to renew my NM CDL lic and if so why?
It’s all in how you “self-identify.” If you’re driving over the road, you declare to the state that you’re “non-exempt, interstate.” That means you are no exempt from the requirement to have a current DOT physical on file. If you aren’t driving, declare yourself “exempt – interstate.” Your CDL stays current, but you may not drive a commercial motor vehicle. If your status changes (you get a driving job,” simply contact the DMV in your state to have your status changed back to “non-exempt, interstate.”
I went to the Company Dr who doesn’t speak english very well I tried to explain to the MA that the BP cuff was too tight she said it was suppose to be that tight where I could feel my veins pumping ended up with a high BP this was done 2x on same arm after 20 min she did the other arm same way all came out high , in the afternoon I decided to go with another DOT physician and pay out of pocket for 2nd opion no issues with BP cuff BP was normal passed DOT physical company is now telling me they will not accept DOT medical card even though DPS accepted it is this allowed ??
@Carlos
You are dealing with some company policy. You could ask to see what their written policy is, but by all means you have the right to go to any qualified CME to request a second opinion.
I obtained my class A cdl when i turned 18 and i am now 20 and am due to renew my dot card soon. I lived in Illinois but recently transferred my license over to Texas (about 8 months now) however i am still residing in Illinois due to some personal issues. Do i have to go all the way back to texas to renew my dot card or can i get it done where I originally got it done at in Illinois?
@Amie
A federal medical card for interstate is valid throughout the United States. You can get your DOT physical done anywhere provided it is done by an FMCSA certified medical examiner.
I’m a California cdl driver. My medical card expires next month .I just had surgery ,I had a traumatic tear to my rotator cuff and I can’t pass the physical at this time. Is there an extension I can receive do to to my situation?
@Corey
As soon as you have a medical condition that takes you off the road, your medical card becomes invalid.
Best bet is to contact your local drivers license department in CA and notify them of your situation.
Each state treats this type of process differently so find out what the can do for you in CA – maybe a temporary downgrade, and upgrade your CDL once you are fit to drive again.
How do you “downgrade “? Once I could pass the physical I can just upgrade again?
I broke my foot on the job, my DOT physical is due before my foot will be completely healed. I will miss by approx. 2-3 weeks. What are my options, a three month card? thanks
@Jeff
As soon as you have a medical condition that takes you off the road, your medical card becomes invalid.
Best bet is to contact your local drivers license department and notify them of your situation.
Each state treats this type of process differently so find out what the can do for you in your state.
If a CDL driver applies for a part time job and is required by the company to take a physical, does the new card cancel out the Physical Card from his full time job even if it has not expired
If I have a DOT physical exam & the physician recommends a specialist every time , do I have to go every time the physician recommends the specialist?
@Alexia
The question is very vague, so the best answer that we can give right now is, it all depends on the reasoning for the request.
I recently got my dot medical card but then 1-2 months later I legally changed my first and last name due to family issues. Do I have to pay for another physical even though I’m technically the same person just with a different name?
@Desmond
If you are near the examiner that did your original, then they may change it for a small fee. If not then you’ll probably have to do a new exam with your new name. You don’t want to confuse the DOT officers….
I drive a under 26000 gvwr truck in California with a class C license noCDL. Am I required to have a DOT physical?
@Warner
If you drive the truck for commercial purposes, yes, you need a medical card.
Can you pass the dot physical with a massive rotator cuff tear & severe back pain. ???
@Jeff
Not as a class A interstate driver. And you will have difficulty passing almost any type of driving position, especially if you have to shift gears and possibly help unload. The medical examiners are looking for a ‘fit for duty’ status.
I just had a spinal cord stimulator implanted in my back…to help elivate pain from herniated disc,is this something that may disqualify me on the DOT physical?
@Danny
Since your medical card has been invalidated, due to the implant, you will need a medical release form from your doctor explaining your condition and a working prognosis. Take that documentation with you when you go for your DOT medical certification examination. As long as your condition does not pose any type of safety issues, then you may be OK. Good luck
I am a 69 year old man with 50 years driving experience. 2 years ago I had heart bypass surgery and recovered very well from it. I have been driving a truck pulling a flat with lumber loads for the last 5 years. I do not drive out of my home state of Iowa and usually my runs are around 100 miles. A couple of months ago, I went to my heart doctor for a checkup. He said everything looked good and to keep working as long as I could as that was good exercise for me. I went this week to our local clinic to a Qualified Medical Examiner for my renewal of my physical. I guess when I was talking to my heart doctor I said that sometimes I get tired in the afternoon – this was when I was having trouble with my sleep machine and that problem has been taken care of. Well, between my heart doctor and my regular doctor and the Medical Examiner I have been disqualified just because of the statement I said. I have passed every medical test excellently. Can I be disqualified because of this statement I made even though I am in good health, love to work, never work long hours and stay within a 100 mile radius. Is there any thing I can do to remedy this situation.
@Steve
All you need is supporting documentation that all of your issues are non-issues, and since you drive within your state at all times, you could go intra-state only for your cdl and then fall out of the FMCSA guidelines and into your states variances. Good luck
What are the steps after a failure of cpap compliance? Need advice to correct my mistake
Thanks for your answer – I am continuing to “fight” this issue. I feel that I am getting “put off” by my Medical Examiner. The disqualification states “said gets sleepy in afternoon and takes Zoloft”. My heart doctor as released me to go to work. I have tried to get into see my Medical Examiner again – he was off a couple of days and then was too busy to work me in until the next week. His nurse made the remark that between my age and taking Zoloft that was an issue. Sleep apnea test – passed Heart tests – passed Blood work — passed Blood pressure passed. Eye exam – passed Age ?69 is a problem?- didn’t realize that 69 was over the hill for driving truck. Zoloft – problem? I am getting very discouraged and my employer could hold my job for me any longer. Pretty easy to see why we have a driver shortage in this country. If I get a second opinion, do I have to let the 2nd doctor know about being disqualified by the 1st doctor?
If an employee who does not drive for the company, but wants to borrow a truck for personal use, need a medical card?
At the time of my last DOT exam my BP was high so I was only given a 3 month DOT approval. I never turned that approval in to the DMV. The CDL was taken off my license. Is my CDL still valid? If not once I get my DOT exam will it become valid again or will i have to take the CDL exam over again?
@Terry
If you don’t keep a current medical card on file with your DMV they automatically downgrade or suspend your drivers license.
Each state treats this process differently. You will need to contact your local DMV to see what their process is to get your CDL reinstated.
1. Is the DOT medical card transferable when changing to new employer?
2. Is the DOT medical card transferable when moving to new state?
@Douglas
1. Yes, your medical card is yours personally, and the record is attached to your driver’s license.
That being said, a new employer may have a policy that you go through a new medical exam for them.
2. The medical card is valid nationwide if it is “interstate”.
If you have an “intrastate” medical card it may not be transferable because it may fall under your current state’s variances.
I have a spe wavier that has expired. If the dr that will be doing my new dot physical dont think i need the spe waiver am i still required to renew spe wavier
@James
There are more questions than answers on this one.
If you need an SPE for your medical card to begin with, then it is marked on your last medical that it is required.
If that condition has fully corrected and you have supporting documentation to go along with it from your doctor, then the CME may take the information into consideration.
Do I receive my medical card before I know if I passed the urine test?
@Brandon
These are two different things. Medical card is for fit for duty status. The urine test during the DOT examination is for proper kidney function, not drug screening.
Your urine drug test will be at the request of the employer, and only you know if it is going to be clean or dirty.
so the urine test will not show marajuana?
Do DOT doctors in different states share information in a common system that other DOT doctors can see? Just concerned about prior high bp issues that are somewhat under control now. I really want to switch companies but hesitant at the risk of quitting.
Thanks in advance!
@TruckerLife2017
Your results are updated in the FMCSA database by each DOT doctor. So health conditions will be tracked by FMCSA and at some stage by your local drivers license department.
You must be honest when you fill out the Health Questionnaire for the DOT doctor. Lying will catch up with you.
Just make sure you have your BP under control and you will be okay.
Get more info on requirements here at BP and Hypertension.
I was injured in 9-26-2011 by a delivery driver that pushed me against my 53 ft trailer. It broke my arm in two places , my hand, and my arm that attaches into my shoulder isn’t in place and can raise my arm only about 12″ above my hip. I talked to a person that is hiring hotshot 1 ton pickups but was told that I needed a cdl lic. I was turned down by a medical physician because I couldn’t lift my arm above my head. If I am only driving a 1 ton rather than an eighteen wheeler can I get a restriction just to drive a 1 ton and get a cdl lic?
@Danny
There are different classes of cdl’s out there. So you want to check into a class B cdl. That would allow you to drive a one ton and not to be evaluated as a class A interstate long haul driver. And as long as your state allows for your present restrictions, you should be in pretty good shape. Good luck
A few years ago I had depression. I got my cdl last year and was cleared then because I had been symptom free for over a year. Now when I went to get a dot exam with my new job I was informed I have to get an evaluation on my mental state every year after being cleared of all depression symptoms last year and have to get a dot physical done every year as well. Where do I find this regulation?
And I had not taken any medication in over two years, now three years.
@Jess
FMCSA, but they don’t have the regs online.
Try getting a medical release form from your doctor explaining your situation and if he has one, a working prognosis. That should satisfy the examiner. The CME is really looking for any possible safety issues.
i just retired and my medical card expires the end of april 2017. i would like to keep my cdl license in case i decide to go back to driving in a few years. is that possible in pa?
@Mike
Some states may let you self-certify as “intrastate excepted” so you don’t need a medical card. Then when you want to drive again, you’ll need to self-certify to an “non excepted” status and get a new medical certification. You’ll need to check this with you local drivers license department.
Or ask DLD – if you downgrade your license, what is your state’s process to reinstate your CDL?
If you get sick on the road and pass out from dehydration but you bite your tongue, The Medical doctors thinks you might had a seizure but you know you didn’t have a seizure .You are out of work until you see another doctor which clears you to go back . So you go back to the original DOT doctor that took you out of service. My question is if your original Medical dot card doesn’t expired until 5 months later and the medical DOT doctor release you back too. Do you have to re-certify or will the the original Medical DOT card be good with just a work release from Medical DOT doctor.
Will the physical and medical Card that I got to get my CDL permit be good enough to get a job, or will I have to take another physical and get another card when I go to get a job?
@Rickey
It depends on your new employer whether they want you to get a new physical or not.
I just recently had a double bypass heart surgery 5mo ago, got diagnosed w a bladder tumor/cancer, a blockage in left kidney ureter, and pain in right leg. am recieving chemo, on medication, getting a 4 wheel walker as right leg pain almost has my leg buckle, and occasionaly wont let me sleep. all this would i qualify for DOT, or can i pretty much consider my career in trucking over? and i was informed that i could qualify for retirement due to these conditions, is this correct, and where do i get the papers to file?
@Alan
Do not know about your retirement, but yes, you could not meet the FMCSA requirements for a valid medical card. Once you have completed all of your treatment and you feel that you could drive on a limited basis, you might look into intra-state only. You would then fall under your states variances and may be able to continue driving, if you so desire.
How long can you be off work (non work related injury) before you are required to take another DOT physical before returning to work?
@Laaron
The question would be best answered if we knew what class driver you are.
For class A Interstate drivers, you need a new medical certificate once you leave the seat with illness, injury, or surgery. FMCSA is wanting to confirm that any driver running otr is ‘fit for duty’.
If you did not mention on prior exams that you had Hepatitis C and now have been treated and are cured, will this disqualify you from renewing your DOT card since you did not mention it on the past exams.
DOT Physical is complete but Dr nor staff told me if I had to send this in to DOT, do I mail anything in?
@Penny
Yes, it is the drivers responsibility to get a copy of your current medical certificate to your local drivers license department, to keep on record with your drivers license.
Had HCV was cured with Harvoni have a medical opinion release letter from treating physician along with lab results.Was considering.answering not sure to the chronic infectious disease question. What would you change if I answered not sure versus yes.Do I complicate my DOT exam by answering not sure.
@Bob
If you already have a medical release with your doctor’s opinion upon it, then you should do just fine.
If you answer “not sure” you will pose more questions than if you just provide the supporting documentation.
I don’t think it’s fair, or makes any sence, that only cdl drivers need the exams. Should be everyone then??
If there are no health issues, how early can you retake your DOT Physical?
@Dean
There is no regulation about when. Sometimes a new employer will require a new DOT exam. If you have a lot of time on your current card, the examiner may ask why you want a new exam.
Is there a difference in the code on the certification cards?
@Tammy
Not sure what you mean by this question.
Here is a link to the FMCSA Medical Examiner’s Certificate. https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/docs/Medical_Examiners_Certificate_Form_MCSA_5876_0.pdf
If I cannot get in to get my stress test done before my physical expired can I get a 30-day extension
@Gregory
That will depend on the medical examiner. Just check with them before / when you call to set up the examination appointment.
I have a 3 month card and in the midst of me making appointments my mom got sick and she lives in Dallas I’m in Chicago so she was later diagnosed with stage 4 cervical cancer and passed away so I went and got the sleep study done and I have sleep apnea so I’m waiting for my CPAP and I ask the doctor for an extension to get everything done and he said NO. Is there any way I can get a extension?
@ Kevin D
The examiner is following the FMCSA guidelines and does not have a way to by-pass the system without putting himself in jeopardy of losing his license. And be aware that once you start on the cpap, you will need a thirty day readout showing a 70% compliance record to present to the examiner.
Can you pass a dot physical with a drop foot
@Clarence
All depends on the severity of the situation. FMCSA is looking at issues such as yours through the eyes of any possible safety issues. If you can perform the duties of a CMV operator, then you should be OK. Make sure you have a medical release form from your primary doctor explaining your condition and possible prognosis. All the information is useful for the CME to make his final decision.
Does having hepatitis C have to be reportied on your DOT medical exam. Will this condition affect you in being approved for your DOT card
@Bob
Should not be an issue for the DOT examination. So unless you have some symptomatic issues, you should be fine.
I have an Indiana chauffeurs license. I drive a ford 450 flat bed truck. We only operate in Indiana. We have dot numbers on the truck. We only transport our goods which are not hazardous. Do I need to have dot physicals? Every year or every other year I get re certified. But I have just found out by a couple of drivers that they do not go for their phyiscals. We are all intrastate drivers and drive trucks less than 26,000#s.
@Chris
You need to confirm this issue with your local drivers license department. Most states require that any driver operating a vehicle that has DOT numbers on it is requires to have a valid medical certificate to operate the vehicle. And because you grandfathered in under a chauffeurs license, this only means that you now have a CDL of some sort now. Get your best answer from your local drivers license department. You will fall under the states variances not federal.
Thank you! I will check.
If you are taking thyroid medication (Levothyroxine 150mcg) and are in Truck Driving School…… to get your CDL. Will a TSH lab result of 6 (normal .5 to 5 – or even .5 to 2.5) will that disqualify you from becoming a driver?
@Debbie
As long as the medications or the conditions do not cause any safety issues, you should be good. Make sure you have a valid medical release form from your doctor indicating your medications and what his working prognosis is. All of this information helps the CME make his final decision. As far as the levels, you will need to keep a close watch on your medications and maintain your situation to the very best that you can. Driving commercially is not an easy job and requires that you be as personally responsible for your health and overall well being. Good Luck.
Hello. I know what the common response is to my condition. Especially cause it says I disqualify in the FMCSA. However, there are exceptions to every rule. I have been exempt in the past when getting a DOT Physical, but not driving for awhile, and now a little older, I’m due for another DOT Physical in order to apply for a trucking job. My concern?
I have Type 1 Diabetes. Although Diagnosed in 2002, keeping it under control, I still passed a DOT Physical in 2008, and drove OTR for a carrier for 6 months. Only reason I left than, they did not let me get the promised home time. After leaving, though applying for other opportunities, none working out, I gave up trucking for the time. My CDL and my Medical Certification expired, and CDL privileges suspended cause I did not renew my MCE properly in time. Summer 2016, I started with a Motorcoach Carrier to be a CDL B with P operator. I went to get DOT physical, and shared my info about DIabetes on the form, I had no blood nor protein in my urine, only slight rise in sugars in urine, and a Blood Glucose check shared my BS was 150 (in that general area, i don’t remember exact). I talked with the doctor, he asked questions about how i control my spikes, drops, symptoms how I feel, etc. He had general idea I keep under good control. I asked what disqualifies a Diabetic and why so strict on FMCSA, he said something along lines of “if it’s not controlled, which show in the tests, it means your more likely to have mishaps unexpectedly”. He PASSED my MCE, clearing my DOT Physical for my CD, though I needed a DOT Physical in 6 months. However, due to prior issues with CDL when I didn’t renew, having to pay suspension fee on my CDL, the Motorcoach carrier did not continue with training me, and I did not finish getting CDL.
Now, about 6 months or more later, in early 2017, I’m trying to apply for Truck Driver job, going with local company training to get my CDL, i need my CLP and DOT Medical Exam done in advance. Knowing I have Diabetes, I know the roadblocks ahead of me. Hoping to reduce ANY potential Complications… I wanna know what can I do in advance to ensure I have a successful DOT physical. See my Doctor? Get a Medical Release Opinion completed? How to best keep my Proteins from my urine? Honestly though, my sugars go as high as 300, I still don’t feel as if it would effect my ability to operate a CMV. I take a Basal insulin that is 24 acting, Lantus. This keeps a steady supply of insulin in my body. When my sugars spike, the steady Lantus reduces the effects on the body by continuing to allow the sugar to be used, even though high. The only worry I have, if I go without food for 4 hours, or more, I could slowly start to drop in BS. I know this, so I would keep OJ and candy within arms reach of driver seat. I can recognize my BS drops, and I know when my sugars gets around 90 or so, where I still have control of everything, even perception, and would have time to get my vehicle, tractor trailer, off in a safe stop, in order to put my sugars in check, eat a meal, balance with dose of insulin, and be on my way! With properly schedule runs, I would always allow time to make sure I get my sugars in control when I feel they are beginning to fall out of.
Further, at the moment, I’m only managing with syringe doses of two kinds of insulin. I have my spikes at time, and I have my lows at times, but for most part, I have it under control! I’ve experienced trucking as diabetic already, and know I can handle the demands. I’ve passed a DOT Physical twice already. However, moving forward, I plan to get my Diabetes under better control with CGM (Constant Glucose Monitoring) sugar checks and Insulin Pump Therapy (OMNIPOD, Tubeless, Wireless, Insulin pump Therapy) and with these combined, I will know when sugars startt moving out of range without checking, and will be able to deliver insulin with touch of buttons, and have what ever food/snack in reach while driving… I will be able to operate the vehicle as if I wasn’t even Diabetic!
What must I do to ensure I can pass my DOT Physical and get my MCE? Will a Medical Release Opinion from my own Doctor be enough? Will records from my sugar readings be needed? Records of my Insullin Doses provide idea of my control? I want to drive trucks, it’s always been my passion, and I know I’ve done so in the past, even though I was diabetic.
Thank you for your time.
@Dman
Basically it boils down to this.
As a driver requesting to drive class A over the road / interstate, you would have to have a diabetes waiver from the FMCSA before you would be allowed to drive CMV.
That being said, you could check with your local drivers license department and see what your states variances are regarding you driving commercially as an intra-state only driver. That puts you in a better position since you are now dealing with the states variances and not the DOT/FMCSA regulations.
You will still need to support your situation and findings with documentation from your doctor, so a medical release form is needed here. And the best thing you will do for yourself is learn to get this condition under control and maintained. Good Luck
I am a health care provider. A family friend asked me a question which is out of my field of expertise but I said I would look into it for him. His story is that about 15 years ago he was told he had Hepatitis C and that treatment may not provide a cure and could be expensive. He had no symptoms and said his understanding was that it was sexually transmitted disease and therefore his thinking was it was a sexually transmitted disease that both his wife and he had contracted. Turned out her previous fiance had Hepatitis C also. Anyway, he has been a truck driver for greater than 15 years and never mentioned this on his prior exams as he didn’t think it applied due to thinking it was “sexually transmitted”. In 2015 he was treated after seeing commercials on TV and therefore going back to see the Dr. He was successfully treated and told me he is cured with normal liver functions. His question to me was: “Is this a problem for renewing his DOT license if he gets a medical release from his Dr. and will it be a problem that he never reported it due to his medical ignorance? Could this cause him to be disqualified at the time of renewal due to not realizing it was an infectious disease and therefore not reporting/mentioning it on prior renewal forms? Will he need to do anything different when it is time for him to retake his DOT exam?”
@Concerned
No, he should not have any issues. If possible have his medical doctor complete a medical release form explaining the situation. That will help the CME in his decision making process.
Do I need take another dot medical exam?
injured my neck in a fall, doctor will release me in a week.
@Richard
New examination needed before returning to driving. Make sure you have a copy of the doctors release form in hand before going for your next DOT examination.
I have two work injuries. One resulted with a SCS (spinal cord stimulator), for the low back pain being implanted. The doctor is now planning on freezing the nerve which is causing the pain. The second is an injury to the right knee and thigh area up into the right hip. Putting full weight on the knee and leg show signs of weakness. The doctor has placed me on permanent light duty due to the knee injury. Based upon my job requirements, the restrictions mean I cannot drive for my current carrier.
I am due to renew my DOT card in the next few weeks and I am wondering if I should even attempt to get the physical if these issues will dis-qualify me.
@Brian
You are not going to pass a DOT medical certification examination.
So check with your local drivers license department and see what they have to say about putting your CDL on hold or into suspension until you are ready to return to work. You might also check with your local DLD and see what restrictions they may have with you driving intra-state only, once you are ready to return to work. Good Luck.
Hello…I have recently been diagnosed with a balance issue, and I am wondering if that will disqualify me from getting my DOT card. Lamotrigine 100 mg is what the doctor has prescribed. Also I have been on clonazepam .5 twice a day for about 6 years…will that be an issue. I suffer from bad anxiety and I did not disclose that medication on previous exams…will that get me in trouble? I also have had back surgery, and have a hard time performing at the level I need to in my job because of this. Doctor recently told me I have arthritis in my hips from the 25 years of doing the job on the road. I have been inside for past year, and bids are coming up for jobs again. I am worried I will lose my job, but I think I can stay inside from driving if I fail my DOT. Any advice would be appreciated Thank you..
@John
With your present conditions and prescriptions, you could not qualify as an interstate CDL driver. You might look into local, intra-state only, but don’t get your hopes up too high. The medication and your conditions are going to cause a lot of questions, so be prepared if you head in that direction. Good Luck
Hello. I’m being reinstated, I need to know if I need to go to the MVA or get the DOT card first?
@Stephen
Not sure how you can get reinstated without a medical card!
I’m 65 and in great health..will I recieve a 1 year or 2 year DOT medical certification because of my age?
@Jerry
There is no age notation in the FMCSA guideline, so unless the CME feels that you should be restricted, you should not see anything different from your last DOT examination.
What are the requirements for a PASS or FAIL result concerning a stress test ?
@Charles
This will depend on what the original condition was. Heart attack, stent, bypass…?
December 25 2016
I had a bi lung transplant and can’t find anything on this, I’m doing great my transplant dr. says that I could go back to work in 3 or 4 months. He will fill out the Medical Release at that time will that be all I need to get my medical card ?.
@Joel
A medical release form from your doctor and a pulmonary evaluation with a copy of the results. That should be all you need, if all else checks out you will probably be limited to one year at the time for a bit so the CME can keep an eye on you.
I didn’t see anywhere, if the DOT physician accepts Medicaid. I’m currently under the United Healthcare Community Plan, and if so, will making an appointment take forever like other appointments?
@Kevin
DOT physicals are not covered by insurance. You won’t find a physician who’ll take Medicaid or other insurance.
Check out the doctors on this website. Most have same day appointments available.
they dont accept medicaid and i usually pay out of pocket for mine only because its not covered through work ( it doesn’t effect my job(which currently isn’t driving cdl )
How much does the dot physical cost. And where can I get the cheapest physical in Douglasville Ga
I’m uncomfortable with my companys recent request that I get my CDL physical at their doctors. I have had a heart attack in the past and have been working with my personal doctor (who is DOT cert. for physicals) and my cardiologist as the guidelines seem to change. One of the measurements on an EKG I am borderline and my doc requires a report from my cardiologist that I’m fit and able to drive a truck , after my stress tests , etc are completed. Once he receives this report from my cardiologist he passes me for the certification (1 year). I’m concerned that an outside doctor may not accept this as it seems its more of a judgement call on the physicians part. Would I be out of line to follow through with my normal procedures of using my personal doctor in acquiring my Certification, then using to company doctor to appease the company. If the company doctor fails me I still have my certification from my personal doctor and would still be able to keep my license. If the company doctor passes me I could either use that one or continue to use the one issued by my personal doctor.
@Jack
By law you can use any CME that is on the registry.
But if you go to one and he passes you and then go to another and he fails you, the last exam reported to the NRCME is the one that counts. Consider going to your personal doctor, if he is DOT/NRMCE registered. That should be all you need as long as you have the proper documentation.
Do I have to take my DOT card to the driver license place and put it on file
@Rodney
Yes – It is the commercial driver’s responsibility to ensure that they get a copy of their current Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) to their state drivers license department to keep on file with their Commercial Drivers License.
DLD may accept a copy for renewal in person, by mail, fax, email, or online submission. Each state differs in their process for receiving the MEC.
See this article State Drivers License Department – Medical Certificate Update for links to find your State regulations.
is there a grace period for renewing your D.O.T. physical?
I was told i had high levels of protein in my urine and that its most likely an infection can that be because of an std?
@John
Yes.
@John – Proteinuria (protein in the urine) can be caused by diabetes, certain medications, urinary tract infection (UTI), kidney disease, immune system disorders, and several other things. My advice is that you see your primary care doctor, or a Nephrologist (kidney specialist) if you are concerned.
I have a question I was driving charters buses for 4 years and had my dot medical exam and left the charter buses and went to small school buses and did two physical exam with the 19A doctors thru my company…however I received a letter from DMV bus unit that they would suspend my licence and I took the 19A written exam about a week ago..DO I have to take another physical again?
@Robert
The CME should have been on the national registry. If your medical certificate has a registry number on it, then you are good to go from the DOT medical certificate stand point.
What is the purpose of the glucose test and can you fail it? What causes a failed test?
@Danny
The test is for sugar in your urine, which should never be there. It is a test to determine whether you are a diabetic or not. Yes, you can fail it with sugar present in your urine.
What would you recommend in regards to studying for the urine test? I heard some of the CME’s can get pretty pissy about this. Thanks and Happy Holidays!!!
@Dick
You’re welcome. HA-HAppy holidays to you too.
I was recently in a car accident and I have a bunch of strained muscles in my back and possibly a few lacerations on a couple of vertebra. I’m suppose to take my dot physical before Dec. 21st and I don’t think I can pass the physical. I’m sure I’ll be fine in a later date what can I do to resolve this. I’ve tried calling the bmv they transfered me fmcsa number with no luck. Just wondering what are my options at this point?
@Charles
You won’t pass the DOT medical examination, so you want to talk to your local drivers license department. Explain your situation and they should have the best answer for you.
I had a DOT physical done today for medical card, to drive a box truck for my employer. I have had one before and did not have to take a DOT drug test. Why is this now requred? and what panel test is it?
Is my Iowa DOT physical form good any beyond the expiration date?
@Arlan
Your medical card expires at midnight on the expiration date, and is not valid for driving after that.
if you are on diabiliaty for two months with a class a license and then go back to work do you need to renew your medical card
@Randy
Yes. Any time a medical condition prevents you from driving, you need a new medical exam to re-certify and get a new medical card.
How long is an employer required to wait for a driver to pass his DOT Re-certification for a manageable condition such as High Blood Pressure?
@Dolores
The employer is not required to do anything in this case. The driver is either fit for duty or not and either has a valid medical certificate or not. End of subject. Now the company may have a policy to work with the driver, but it is not required.
I have had a DOT medical exam and I passed it. I gave a COPY of my medical exam to the company that wants to heir me but they said they need the original document, not a copy. The Dr. office said they have to keep the original document in there file system. The revised (form MCSA-5875 REVISED 12/09/2015) says the Dr. office must keep the original document. Where can I find documentation that says the company that heirs CDL drivers only needs to keep a COPY of form MCSA-5875 Medical Examination Report Form?
Thank you
@Vic
The medical examiner gives you the original medical card, but has to keep the original long form MCSA-5875.
The company who hires you needs a copy of the medical card only; unless they have a company policy of keeping a record of the long form and you have signed agreement to that – and all they need is a copy.
The doctors office cannot give you the original if they have to keep the original, and the company who hires you should know this since that’s their business.
I am a type 1 diabetic, and was approved to drive by my specialist doctor and submitted paperwork to the dmv, is that the same as a DOT exam? Can I move on from there without the card or do I have to see my specialist again for another exam?
@Wes
Part of your question requires more information.
What type of driving and what class driver are you?
In most states if you drive a vehicle that is used for commerce, then you need a medical card. If you are a class A driver, then you need a medical card that has been done by a physician that is on the federal / national registry. So what type driver and then we can answer your question more completely.
I am a class C attempting to get an ambulance drivers certification in California
@Wes
You will fall under your states variances and need to check with your local drivers license department for the most complete information.
I was unable to renew my medical card due to some medical issues and then I had family issue that had to take president over getting the medical card. I know that they downgraded my cdl. The medical card expired over 6 months ago but the cdl was downgraded less than 6 months. Will I have to retest for my cdl if I provide a new medical card?
@Jud
You’ll need to contact you local drivers license department about your CDL. Only they can answer your question.
I went to get my medical card renewed and because I had cancer earlier in the year they are pending me until they receive additional information from my oncologist. I just want to make sure DOT is aware and there will be a delay.
@Wayne
You need to contact your local drivers license department and let them know your situation. They have their own process to put this on hold. Each state treats this process differently / their own way. Only they can tell you how to do this. Should not be a problem.
I need to go have a DOT physical in PA and have found a doctor listed to do so. However she is stating that I need to provide a laminated card for her to fill in that I will carry with me.
I thought I just needed to do the long form and the medical examiners certificate dated 2015, exp 2018. And I thought from reading your website that a DOT approved doctor would furnish the forms. I can’t find anywhere to buy a laminated card and she has told me that the 2 forms on your website are not the correct forms. So I am totally confused. Shouldn’t the DOT approved doctor have the correct forms?
@Chris
All certified examiners should have the correct forms. If she doesn’t have the forms and she is certified, most likely she seldom does DOT physicals and maybe you want to consider going to someone who deals with drivers often, and understands their circumstances.
Here is a link to the forms: MCSA-5875 & MCSA-5876
Here is a link to some driver friendly DOT Physical Doctors in PA.
I have just had gastric sleeve surgery done and I am wondering will that cause me not to be able to pass a dot physical.
@Chris
Once you are all healed up and fully ready to go back to work, then you should be good to go. You would want to bring a medical release form from your doctor, along with a release to return to work.
i have a question. I was recently in an accident as i was biking to work, and my medical card expired as i was in the hospital. Now i am out and healing. Do I just go get a new medical card, pay the fee at the dmv? or do I have do do all the written tests and driving ones again?
@Zamiel
Once fully healed and ready to return to work, just get a new DOT physical. Also go down to the drivers license department now and let them know what is going on, that way they don’t think you are just being slack. They may downgrade you for the moment, but hold your CDL until you are fully recovered.
How can I find out when my DOT physical is due if I no longer have the letter that was mailed to me about it?
@Jessica
Look at the expiration date on your last medical card.
If you’ve already received a letter from DMV, then probably your medical card is already expired.
I have a valid medical examiners certificate valid until 4/17 with the state of florida which I certified on line.i have started a new driving job which required a new dot physical and when I go on line to certify the new card floridas web site does not seem to allow any access to do this.iam trying to avoid hours on hours wait at the dmv,any suggestions
@Thomas
Sorry we can’t help you, have no idea what you can do other than contact your local DMV.
What are the dot regulations on attempted suicide.
@Tony
A medical release from your psychologist and from your prescribing doctor. There is a waiting period that must be met and a clear medical release form from those above. Also a working prognosis from your doctors stating that they feel that your situation is fully under control and well managed.
I work for a transit company in Florida and also work for charter and tour company.. I have two medical card one for FTA and FMSCA.. my FTA card expired and my employee pull me off from driving.. I explained to them that I had my FMSCA card and they wouldn’t acknowledge it.. how do this work
@Ruby
FMCSA is for the federal drivers and validates the CDL.
Can’t answer for the FTA card within the state of Florida. Check with your local drivers license department for the best answer.
While taking a professional driving class they started the process of getting our CDL. THey brought in a ceritfied DOT doctor to perform our physical for our medical card. I had smoked marijuana weeks prior so this test was positive.
Will I be prevented from going ahead and taking the CDL test and getting a CDL or will any certified DOT Doctor I go to for a physical know that there is this one time failure out there in the system? I have not and do not smoke marijuana at this time and never will again.
Someone said I will be “red Flagged” in the system and disqualified to get a CDL ? Is that correct?
@Richard
Drug testing is for employment.
And the CDL would be to drive commercially. Getting and passing your CDL examination and receiving a medical card is a demonstration of fit for duty.
The positive drug test will effect your employability if it is noted by the company. Make sure you are clean before re-testing and you should be fine.
But if you are going to continue the use of the herb, then please do not go into driving as a career.
The dmv says that my dot physical was never turned in for 3 years. I have copies of both exams, what can I do? They are saying I have to retest
@Sandra
It is the drivers responsibility to ensure that you update your drivers license record with your latest medical card. If you did not provide them with an updated copy, that is why they downgraded your license.
Each state treats this process differently. Go in to you local drivers license department to sort this out, as they are the only ones who can help you in this situation.
This questions concerns the State of Pennsylvania and the laws for getting a medical card recertification. I have an employee who was recently involved in a car accident. His medical card is scheduled to expire this month and there is no way he can take a physical at this time. The law says if the state doesn’t receive the new card before the expiration of the old one he will lose his CDL. Is there any way to put this recertification on hold until he is physically able to be recertified.
@Jon
Each state treats this process differently. The driver will need to contact his local drivers license department to see what they can do to accommodate his situation.
We had an employee not pass his DOT physical because of high blood pressure. We paid for that…..when h went back a week later they just took his blood pressure and since it was under control they certified him. They then charged us for another physical….is that the way it really works?
@Katherine
With the new medical certification forms, that is the way the system forces medical examiners to work. Either: 1. Medical Examination Report with “PENDING” status to be followed up or 2. Issue a new medical examination report, completed.
If the examiner’s office put your driver in “pending” status, and he kept his old card in the meantime, then all they needed to do was make a note change on the BP and issue a new card, and update the FMSCA database that the examination was complete.
If they completed the first exam, and disqualified him, or gave him a short card to get the situation under control, then the followup exam is a complete new exam and update in FMCSA database.
They can charge for another physical, because technically it is another physical, and another complete medical examination report to FMCSA. It’s up to the doctor’s office, and sometimes they make a plan to work with the driver if the situation can be rectified in a short time.
funny thing happened to me as well but i contacted the office for the occupational health part of that company and was told i shouldnt be charged if i saw the same dr but was charged anyway wtf is that
I have been to get a DOT physical in the past for the company that I worked for, however, ended up leaving that company before moving on to the recommended sleep study that they required for me to have. I have recently returned back to the same job, and I am being told that I can’t go through the process again due to the fact that I didn’t finish process before. As stated earlier, I didn’t finish the process because I left the job.
Am I able to go and get this process started without any resistance?
@Bryce
You can get a second opinion from any registered CME. But you may need to follow the company policy guidelines. That may be very different from company to company. There is no requirements for a sleep study unless you demonstrate signs and symptoms of OSA. If it is being based exclusively on neck and BMI, then go for a second opinion.
I own a small business that uses non-CDL rental trucks (26ft, less than 26,000 GVWR straight truck) regularly throughout the month. We rent for less than 30 days at a time. We have historical data on drug and background checks that include BMV check yearly. In the state of Ohio do we need to carry any medical or physical card in the truck with our drivers? Is there anything else other than insurance documents that we need to carry?
thanks
@Joe
If your drive a vehicle for commercial purposes you need to have a medical card. You want to carry it with you in case you are asked for it whilst on the road.
See Ohio DOT Medical Card Requirements
Can i get my medical card and drive with a class C for a class C vehicle the same day?
RSS Says
I have a CDL and i haven’t driven commercially since 2008, and don’t intend to drive commercially anymore. Can i still drive my passenger vehicle and do i need a medical certification to do so?
Thank you
@Rudolph
You’ll need to check with your local drivers license department if your CDL has been downgraded, or if your drivers license has been suspended.
I have a question for anyone who might know the answer. I have a prescription for oxycodone, and I just had to do a drug test a few days ago. I know that it will come back positive and that doesn’t worry me but I just realized that my doctor wrote the original prescription for 100 tabs 5mg, but they don’t really work for me, so the pharmacy changed it to 50 tabs 10 mg, will they fail me or will I be Ok ? If anyone knows the answer to this please help, thank u
My husband has AFIB and the clinic that he has gone to for his DOT physical has told him that his BP HAS to be 140/90 due to the AFIB? I was under the impression that AFIB, if under control, does not have an impact on your physical? Am I wrong about this? Also, if he is “disqualified” from the present clinic because his BP isn’t 140/90, can he request a 2nd opinion from a different clinic? And lastly, if he is disqualified from both clinics and is forced to resign from his current position, can he apply at a different trucking company?
Thank you!
@Roxy
BP must be below 140/90 for FMCSA. The afib is just a possible contributing issue, but is not the primary concern. As long as you have proper documentation and a medical release form from the doctor, then you should be fine.
I have a class A CDL that has been restricted, my endorsments are gone with a cmv, only trans personal prop inter, or restriction code A,P does this mean I can’t drive an 18 wheeler period even if i’m not leaving the Houston area and does it limit me to driving class B vehicles.
I am wondering what will happen to my Washington Class A CDL if I check myself into rehab before without having failed a drug test? I was told that I can go on short term disability while I’m in treatment, and while doing so what do I have to tell my employer since medical problems are confidential. If anyone could give me some information regarding these questions or any other information on this topic I’d greatly appreciate it.
@Dan
The moment you check into rehab, your medical certificate becomes invalid.
You will need to check with your local drivers license department to determine how this will effect your CDL.
As to what you tell your employer is totally up to you as far as to how much information you want to provide them with.
Ive had my CDL for a few years, but recently had a job that didn’t require a CDL. Anyway, my medical card expired before I could get it renewed(forgot about do to the current job), when I renewed it late though the state I live in(Michigan) says I was demoted from a A to a C. Do I have to retest for an A, or can I just show my new medical card to be recertified as an A?!?
@Jason
The only place to get an answer is from your local drivers license department.
Each state is different and has their own process and time frames.
My question is I am on list for a liver transplant because of chirrios of liver and doc says all my labs are normal and wont need transplant if i continue to keep doing what I have been, haven’t drank anything since 2008 and completed a outpatient program in hosptial in 08 with all letters of recommendations and never tested postive since 08, i am tested every 6 months for labs and primary doc has letters also can I get a cdl med card?
@Will
With all your documentation in place and in hand, you should be in a good position to get through the FMCSA examination. Get medical releases and any supporting documentation from all your doctors before you go for the examination. That will be a huge help to the CME in his decision making process. Good Luck!
I have type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. I have decided to be more physically active and mow lawns from April through September.
If I only wanted to drive truck for Dec, Jan, Feb each winter, is it considered doctor shopping if I got a three month medical card this winter, and then *one year later* got another three month card?
In other words I’m only planning on driving truck for three months a year, so I don’t care if the three month card can be renewed, but I would have to get a new one each winter.
@Mike
In most states, if you are going to maintain a valid CDL you need to maintain a valid medical certificate. So you really need to check with your local state drivers license department and see what they have to say about the valid CDL on a three months basis or have to keep a valid med card to hold a valid CDL.
If I manage to lose some more weight it won’t be an issue. Before I started taking Metformin my A1C was up at 10.4, but after 6 months on Metformin my A1C is down to 6.2.
It’s my understanding that my A1C has to be below 10 to pass the DOT Physical, so hopefully I’ll be good.
I am in the process of renewing my physical card.
I failed my physical twice for having sugar in the urine. They made me pee in the cup and not prick the finger because I have diabetes. They said I have to see my primary dr. I did. He informed me the medicine I am on for diabetes is supposed to put sugar in the body to be released in the urine to maintain the diabetes. What do I do now to pass this test? My primary dr is willing to write a note to let them know my diabetes is under control.
@Bus Grandma
You need the note from your doctor and a copy of your last A1c.
i have the same prob as bus grandma my a1c is8.0 i have my doctors letter stating my diabetes is well controlled .yet the dr.at …… states he will only waiver me for 6 months i reside in wa st yet need the interstate designation .what is the fed a1c threshold and what wuold you recomend?
@Sam
Questions.
What class driver?
How are you controlling your diabetes?
Are you going for a medical examination/medical certificate or a waiver?
Why do only certain people have to take the sleep apnea Test cuz of being over weight. Wouldn’t this be considered discrimination cuz of weight? Why isn’t it for everyone to take
@James.
Overweight is not the sole condition for sleep apnea screening. See sleep apnea articles for more information.
I have been going through a bad divorce. My doctor had put me on antidepressants, Seriquil, and Xanax. The medication was only to take at night when going to bed. How long do I have to be off the medication? The medication was only to help me deal with my husband of 25 years, which is realistically impossible and get some sleep. So I am just refusing to have anything more to personally do with it. Being away from his mess, I don’t need the medication that I was put on prior to divorce. If I would have know that, would have gotten divorce sooner and never went on medication.
I don’t want to take fail my DOT test. Getting on the road and driving is better than any medication. I just want to work.
I drive a school bus for a private school for field trips, and sporting events. Do i need a DOT medical card for this?
@Jimmie
More than likely. Double check with your local drivers license department.
I drive to and from school, plus trips. Sometimes out of state. Do i need a
DOT medical card.
@Antony
You need a medical card only when you’re driving a commercial vehicle, or a vehicle used for commercial purposes.
Does the d.o.t. book tell you , you cant have unopen alcohol present in your vehicle while driving
@James
YES!
i dont know but i would think that with the legal limit being half what a car drivers limit is probably not a good idea
I have a class b .. I got my dot physical two months ago with my current job, I found another job that wants me to take it again do I really need to get it done again
Thank you
@Roman
Not really, unless it is a company policy.
I am a Type 2 Diabetic. When I went for my physical, I was finger prick and my cholesterol check. Is this now part of the certification. I am living in NC.
@Alice
Not a part of the medical examiners report. He can ask for additional information, but it is not his duty to do anything else.
When a driver is put on determination pending and returns to the office to have his exam completed and amended, should the expiration date of the DOT card be from the original exam date or the amended date?
@Nik
From the date of the completion (last date) of the exam.
I have this problem pic was suspended because they said I did not have my exam before the date on the med. cert. which was wrong they asked for add info from my doc @ I comped days later they downgraded my license and have to pay a restoration fee l think that should have waived because I did go before my expiration date . Why didn’t they give me a 45 day med card? It takes about 3 weeks to get back to work. 3 to 10 days to get a letter of reinstatement
I have a 2 year card and just switched jobs. The new job did a new DOT physical and placed that card on hold pending information from my doctor. Can I still use my 2 year card with one year left of validity?
Thanks and happy school year!
@Busdriver76
You can use your current card, while the new physical examination is on hold in pending.
You must complete the pending examination within the 45 day period. The pending examination report is in the FMCSA database. If you do not complete the exam within the hold period, you medical status will become ‘disqualified’.
I have type 2 diabetes that I was controlling with Insulin, my A1c was 8.2 . In May of 2016 I started a lifestyle change with a low carb diet .Since then I have dropped 25 lbs and Im now down to 220 lbs and my last A1c testing was 7.0 and I have not taken ANY insulin for 3 months. I recently was hospitalized with Kidney Stones and Docs did a Urine test and found my Creatinine levels to be at 2.7. They inserted a Kidney Stent for two weeks and my Creatinine levels dropped down to 1.7. They are now taken me off of Metformin because of its effects on my kidneys and putting me on another drug that does not affect the kidneys. I want to get my CDL Via a school. I’m 55 years old and looking for a different career. Will this disqualify me when I take my DOT physical?? Should I not go for my physical until my Levels are more stable,probably 3 more months ?? thanks in Advance for any help…
@Frank
If you have medical release forms indicating that you have been taken off of your insulin and that your other conditions are under control and being medically supervised, then you are in good shape for the DOT examination. Be aware that you will be limited to a one year card due to your previous conditions and the medical doctor will need to continue to monitor your conditions.
My cdl medical card expired two weeks ago .is there a Grace period for the state why dept?
@ c m
You cannot drive on an expired medical card. No grace period!
Each state treats the license suspension/downgrade process differently. You need to get in touch with your local drivers license department sooner than later.
What if your CDL has 4 more years before it expires but your DOT card is expired because you have a cast on your drivers foot and you can’t get a DOT physical.should I downgrade my license or 60 days until the doctor gives me a return to duty.Or should I just be disqualified and wait to see what the doctor says to make sure I’m ready I know somebody can tell me something I don’t want to lose my CDL
@Lisa
The best thing to do is contact your local drivers license department and let them know that you are (temporarily) disqualified because of your foot, and ask them what their ‘hold’ process is. Each state treats this process their own way, so we do not have a definitive answer for you.
can i get a dot physical in Virginia even though the company vehicles i drive are registered in Pennsylvania?
@David
As long as your physical exam is done by a FMCSA certified examiner, you can have it done by any examiner, in any state.
I recently Failed a drug screen for pre employment on a pipeline job which is governed by DOT the test came back positive for cocaine I have no illegal drugs in my body other then those prescribed by my doctor for type 2 diabetes. Also I was prescribed phentermine and Belviq to help me loose weight the phentermine is a controlled substance that has to be picked up in person at a pharmacy and have photo ID to obtain and sign for the prescription I’m trying to find out if phentermine and Belviq is cause this positive result as I was let go from job even though I told physician about taking these meds. I’m trying to find cause for positive result or who do I contact to find out as I have no other explanation for the positive result any help is much needed.thank you!
@Terry
The MRO who ruled the test positive should have gotten in touch with you the moment your test was positive. He should have ask for any prescription that you are taking and then re-tested your split sample. If none of that happened and the split was not re-tested at another facility, then you need to be asking some serious questions. Talk to the employer and ask why this procedure was not followed. Ask the MRO why there was no phone call for prescription verification. That would be the best places to start.
are no dot medical cards good for 2 years anymore? I know they changed the law if you drive a school bus.
@Tim
Medical cards are no more than two years and may be less.
If you are receiving a card for less, then ask the examiner why. There are any number of things that will reduce the card from a two year to a one year or less, but an explanation should accompany the reduced card.
I am on kidney dialysis and was told that I can can get a non cdl medical card for intrastate. Can I get a dot card for intrastate and get my cdl back? I live in Colorado. Every dot doctor I have seen says I’m perfectly fit for driving a cmv.
@Brian
You will need to check with your local drivers license department to confirm that what you have in the way of information is correct.
You could not qualify for interstate, but should be able to qualify for intra-state only.
i drive a truck that doesn’t require a cdl but large enough for weigh stations i have a d.o.t. card but i’m changing my address on my liscence do i nee a new d.o.t. card?
Im currently enrolled in a CDL training program, i got a dot physical done, and i told the doctor i was an alcoholic, in recovery. I was trying to be truthful and broke my Anonymity because thats how im living my life in sobriety. I provided some letters of recommendation from the sober homeless shelter i live in. She gave me a three month card, provided i stay in the shelter and stay sober. and i need to go back and see her in three months. I found out during school that they do the physicals right in the school, and tomorrow they are doing them for everyone in the class. Can I get another physical done at the school? and not have to go back and see her? is all the information already in the database? or should i just keep the card and not worry?
@Steve
Whatever the findings are on the latest DOT medical examination and put into the FMCSA data base is what the feds work off of.
So a new examination that you pass will override the one before. Be honest and if possible bring the same information with you. All the examiners are looking for is “are you safe to operate a commercial motor vehicle?” Are you physically, mentally and emotional stable and ready to perform the duties of a CMV operator / medically fit for duty. If the examiner is not sure your condition is stable, they will want to be able to check periodically, hence a shorter medical card.
I was told by my employer to submit a copy of my DOT physical to you. I emailed everything, but haven’t even received reply that you got it. Keep waiting? Or is there something I did.
@Todd
The driver is responsible to submit a copy of their new medical certificate to their local drivers license department.
Not sure who the ‘You” is you’re referring to, but it is surely not DOTPhysicalDOCTORS.
Make sure you contact your local drivers license department.
If I am a regular school bus driver and had a stroke how long am I restricted from driving following my stroke?
@David
Interstate drivers, class A, one year minimum.
But if you are driving intra-state only school bus you may fall under your states variances and you would need to check with your local drivers license department for further information.
I’m a diabetic who needs to take insulin and have to do a DOT physical. My AIC’s have been bad for over a year most recent A1C tests done by my doctor were 12.5 (10 months ago and 10 (1 month ago). Would having high A1C’s over a year disqualify me for just driving a step up van (UPS type vehicle)? I struggle to control my diabetes and my records will show high A1C’s due to not taking insulin shots when I’m suppose to.
@Tony
You won’t pass the DOT examination for a CDL driver.
You may qualify to drive intra-state only in a truck, but you need to check with your local drivers license department for further information regarding the states variances.
Would protein in the urine cause one to fail a dot physical?
@David
Not necessarily fail, but definitely would warrant further evaluation until the cause of the problem is resolved. You should have been left with a pending examination until your primary doctor can explain to the CME what the protein is being caused by.
what if you are in hospital when your medical card expires
@Jason
Then your card expires and once you are out and medically fit to do your job again, then you go and do a new DOT medical certificate. Besides you are in the hospital and you have to be medically fit to perform your normal work duties, so you are disqualified right now anyhow.
I recently married, do i need to change my DOT medical card to reflect my new married name or can I wait till it is time to renew?
@Marti
Do it at the time you renew, unless you have a good working relationship with the CME to get them to redo your medical card.
i was given a 6 month card but i was called back so that they could look at my leg because i i have lyphedema but the doctor forgot to check my leg and now they gave me a temporary fail because they want me to take a skills performance evaluation test which i called and they told me i didnt have to take test because i dont have a fixed impairment , i just want to know if they can do that
@Edward
You do not need a SPE, you do need to take care of the lymphedema. This condition could render an emergency safety issue, so being disqualified is the perfect time to get it checked out and corrected. Not sure why a CME would miss this and then call you back for a change in your status. If he initially placed you in the FMCSA database as good for 6 months then that will stand, unless he re-entered you as temp disqualified, then that one stands in place until your condition is corrected.
so they can go back and change status from what was initially put in database. also i have been cleared by doctor and has had no problems with everyday activities.CME never even looked at my leg even when she called me back in .And then requested a sleep study which wasnt asked of me to do from the beginning.
Regarding the 3 month medical card. I was told at my last examination I had to take a sleep study because of the bmi/neck size criteria. I don’t believe I was fairly evaluated because I always received a 2 year card before. Only difference was I have a thick beard that put my neck at 17in exactly. After arguing with the woman she said I had the option of losing 30 lbs. I took the challenge and am only half way there with 3 weeks remaining on the 3 month card. I met with a doctor at a sleep study center and the soonest they can do the study is aba week and a half after my card expires. I explained that to him and he said as long as I am under the evaluation process they will issue an extension on the 3 month card. Now the company medical examiner says she will not. What options do I have if any? Would it be reasonable to shave the beard and ask for a remeasure? Does the company doctor have to refuse to extend the card by law or is it at her discretion?
@Scott
There is no such thing as a required sleep study based on bmi and neck measurements. So unless you demonstrate a lot of other signs and symptoms, you do not have to do a sleep study.
Go somewhere else for a second opinion. If you must do the test with the company doctor, then ask to see the company policy that states you have to have a sleep study. If it is there and they require the test to be done, then they get to pay for it. If there is no company policy and there is no new rules regarding sleep apnea based on bmi and neck size, then you have the regulations to support your stand.
FMCSA has no new rules regarding OSA. For more information on this see our articles on Sleep Apnea Screening.
What documents, forms, medical forms do I bring to physical. What do I bring with me to physical
@Ken
See this article on our blog – What do I need for a DOT physical exam?
I got my dot medacal card in ca I have a co drivers license can I use the ca med card to show co dmv
@James
Yes. A federal medical card is valid nationwide.
what are the consequences for a operating a tow truck with an expired medical card? I got pulled over at a DOT check point and now got a scheduled court date next month. PS i did renew my medical card the next business day. Any answers are very much appreciated!
@b
Can’t help you here. Our focus is on medical qualifications, not law enforcement.
An employee answered truthfully about having used marijuana within the last two years for the health history questionnaire. As a result he was denied his medical card even though he passed his drug test. Is there a time limit for when he could do his physical again? He will have to say that he was denied before under the personal information section, and I suppose, disclose the reason why he was denied before. Will this keep him from ever being granted his medical card?
@Inquisitive
This should have been resolved by the CME at the time of the examination.
I would go somewhere else for the next DOT medical examination, which can be done at any time. If it has been two years or so, then answer as requested.
Can you tell me what exactly the number is for a finger stick that will disqualify you on DOT exam. I went yesterday for a new company and the meter read 302. My sugar is never that high and I tried to tell the DR I missed my medicine dosage, he said he didn’t care and now I had to go and get an A1C. I am diabetic but take medicine to control it.
Can you show me in black and white the actual numbers according to DOT. I am really frustrated because I have a valid card and now a new job is in jeopardy. I live in Florida
@Sad Driver
What sort of test was performed to determine your blood sugar levels? If there is spill over into the urine, then you have to get your condition under control, otherwise it’s a safety issue. The CME needs further information from your primary doctor along with a medical release form from him/her. FMCSA wants a diabetic condition fully under control, no questions asked. An A1c will provide the needed information that your CME is looking for.
What do I have to do to renew my DOT Physical if I am on NorTripolean 10mg for neuropathy
@Bob
Medical release form from your prescribing doctor explaining your situation and medication usages.
If I have a Class D license and need a medical card due to the vehicle being rated 10,000lbs, do all of the requirements for CDL Class A,B and C apply to me? Does the sleep apnea apply – that a person has to show compliance with a cpap machine?
@Tim
The examinations are the same. But there may be state variances that come into play here. So check with the local drivers license department and see what they have to say too.
I have been prescribed clonazepam 1mg/day to take at night for an IBS type undiagnosed problem in the past (before clonazapem was a red flag) It’s a problem I have been dealing with for years on and off and have tried a ton of various medications ranging from steroids to anti-depressants and clonazepam for whatever reason stops the problem (which allows me to sleep and function normally through these flare-ups). I have been off it for some time, but currently experiencing problems again but don’t want any problems as a result of getting the prescription again. Would a CME consider an exemption for this if my PCP documents it has never been prescribed for seizures?
Can my company still reject it even if the CME gives me the OK?
@Frustrated
Your meds are going to raise questions because of the other side effects of the medication. Start with a medical release form from your doctor explaining your condition and situation. All depending on the type of driving you do and how far from home you travel, it may be a point of consideration for the CME.
Do you have to have a Driver’s License to obtain a DOT physical examination?
@Mike
No. People get their DOT medical card before they go to CDL school.
I am a Pennsylvania resident. I have a Class B CDL with both passenger and school bus endorsements.I have taken a medical exam that permits me to drive a school bus (excepted, intrastate).
I want to also work as a Motorcoach driver (non-excepted, interstate). Do I have to re-certify with an addition FMCSA-approved DOT medical examination as well?
@Chuck
Your medical certificate will be good for intra-state or interstate.
If you are going to be driving outside of your state then you need a interstate medical card. Same examination but card is marked for interstate transport.
What percentage or how many drivers fail their DOT physicals per year?
If you disclose your sexually transmitted disease on DOT Physical and Doctor requires More medical information from your specialist to approve you; is the employer required to know your STD Status and is DOT Doctor suppose to provide them with any or all information you might of gotten from your specialist??
also; are you able to deny any disclosure of STD’s to employer; without losing your employment ? what rights if any do someone in this case has??
@Unanimous17
What ever information you place on the medical intake form for the DOT is between you and the examiner. Unless you give permission to pass the information on, it should remain between you and the examiner.
If I am an Insulin dependent Type II diabetic I know I can get an Intra-state only medical card. My question is what is the maximum number my A1C can be before I am ineligible?
@Henry
Your A1C needs to be falling in the near normal levels (4 to 5.6) and make sure you have a medical release form from your doctor showing that you are under control and are being monitored on a routine basis.
Does driving a 6 wheel van(formerly a bakery delivery truck) used by a 501c3 as a”mini- museum” require a medical card in Pennsylvania?
@Earl
Check with your local drivers license department on this one. If the vehicle is used for commerce, then maybe yes, but a 501c3 maybe not. Ask DLD for the best answer here.
I was asked to do a UA, but was unable to provide enough urine, now they are telling me that I will have to be completely naked with someone in the room for my next attempt. Is this right? I’m 55 and have never had a positive UA.
@Shannon
Sounds like a company policy thing to me. You may have failed the first test (positive, incomplete) due to an inadequate of urine for the test, but butt naked with a person in the room for an observed test?… that is not a DOT requirement. Same-sex observed specimen collection maybe yes, naked, no. Unless it is some weird company policy, which I truly doubt.
Who’s Excluded from DOT Medical card with a Class A CDL licsene
In California, should I apply at DMV first for my CDL and then get the Medical Exam or go get the exam first and then go to DMV to apply? Just need to know the exact steps to take and when!
Thanks!
You must have a medical card in order to be able to apply for a CDL.
Hi, I work for an Occupational Medicine Clinic and was just informed due to the new DOT guidelines, our Medical examiner can not longer extend a 3 month card as we have in the past. I would like a little clarity please. On page 4 under Determination pending, it gives our doctors a option if needed to mark the follow-up box, which the patient must return to our clinic in 45 days or less. Are we allowed to extend their card at this point, or should we perform a new physical? There’s also a field for the ME to amend his report; if this is required, should a new physical be performed as well? What if a 3 month card is given, but the patient returns the next day or within the week with the proper information in order to extend his certification, will we have to do a brand new physical as well? Thank you in advance for your help!
@Beverly
“Determination Pending” means the medical examiner needs more information before a qualifying decision can be made. Basically the examination is on hold for up to 45 days so the driver/PCP gets additional information to the examining office, and no certificate is issued. When the necessary information is received the examination determination is made and medical certification is issued if the driver qualifies. The examining office “amends” the information on the “pending” report. The decision as to whether or not to conduct a second medical examination when the driver returns within the 45-day “determination pending” timeframe is up to the discretion of the ME and would depend on whether or not another examination is needed.
It’s up to the medical examiner to decide whether to use the “determination pending” category or not. The medical examiner may instead decide to issue a medical certificate with a short qualification timeframe.
Each time the medical examiner is making a new qualification determination and issuing a MEC, Form MCSA-5876, a new medical examination MCSA-5875 is required.
One of my drivers had his DOT on May 25th and was sent for a sleep study and was given a 3 month cert. He has had this done by June 20th and it was negative. Does he really need to have another complete physical? Is this really a FMCSA rule? I checked the website and its impossible to navigate around to find anything. Everything else on the drivers exam was within normal parameters. I can kind of understand repeating the physical if its the 45 day pending and the driver can’t drive at all. If he needs to have another exam, he loses work time and pay, we lose a driver for half a day and we pay another fee. Money for old rope in my opinion there is clearly a moneymaking loophole here for the DOT ME’s!
@Franny
Unfortunately the new FMCSA form system does not allow a medical card/examination to be extended.
This means that the examiner has to start a new Medical Examination Report MCSA-5875 from scratch.
Reporting the results of the “new examination” into the FMCSA online database, supersedes previous reports.
The driver can go back to the original examining office, and you may be able to get them to do the “new examination” without charge.
Otherwise the driver may go to any medical examiner for a new physical exam.
But the system now forces it to be a “new examination.”
The “money” problem here is sleep apnea screening, not necessarily more exam money for the MEs.
I have had a DOT physical annually for several years due to diabetes. Every doctor has advised a different “guideline” for either a finger stick OR A1C even though these doctors work for the same clinic. I feel like clinics make up their own standards. Where can I find the actual federal guidelines and how can I dispute them with the doctors office if they do not agree.
Also, I understand that Congress passed and Obama signed a law that disallows the DOT from using sleep apnea as qualifying or disqualifying condition until proper rule making procedures were taken. Yet clinics still use it to qualify or disqualify and even have standards for length of qualification on cards. Why are clinics allowed to consider sleep apnea when the law prevents the DOT from considering it?
I have not passed my physical because of a health concern that cannot be fixed so as a result I will lose my CDL. Does that also mean that I will lose my auto license and not be able to drive at all?
@Lynne
Each state treats this process differently. Be sure to contact you local drivers license department and check with them that you can keep your auto license.
when doing a cdl physical what is the difference between the federal and state forms? we need to know when to use the federal and when to use the state. Please help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
@Kathy
Use the Federal Medical Examiner Determination for interstate drivers who qualify under 49 CFR 391 regulations and guidelines or has a Federal waiver/variance. It’s best to use this for all drivers who would qualify for interstate, even if they only drive intrastate. This gives drivers the most options for driving if they change jobs in the future.
Use the State Medical Examiner Determination for intrastate drivers who qualify under 49 CFR 391 regulations and guidelines or who meets the standards in 49 CFR 391.41 only with applicable State variances.
I have an IL driver, who got a fed med physical in the State on WI. How can I check that the state of IL got the information?
@Lana
Federal information: The medical examiner inputs the information into the Federal online database.
State information: It is up to the driver to submit the new medical card to their local drivers license department.
You’ll need to check with IL to find out if they have it.
my ortho doc says i need an ACDF c6-c7 due to degenerative disk disease. Ive had a previous disk surgery. I also have Type2 diabetes and high blood pressure that i have been controlling for several years. Is there anything to worry about when i take my physical this year
@John
Once you are fully healed you will need a medical release form from your doctors. Medical card will be good for one year at the time, but basically you should not have any new issues.
I recently had a California Doctor disqualify me due to my Pain Management Doctor prescribing me Norco for pain – This was a “Return to Work DOT exam following a non-driving work related knee surgery injury. My current DOT Medical card is actually good through June.
Although, I told the doctor that I only take the prescription during my off duty (non-driving) hours “As Needed for Pain” – he replied that he will not Certify any driver with a Norco/Vicodin prescription… Does he have basis here, or is this just his “opinion/interpretation” of the FMCSA regulations? Please also tell me what options I have have for “Appealing” this so I can get back to work?
Thank you, RT
@Randall
If you are still taking pain medication then you are not ready to return to work. That means that you are unfit for duty and the CME is doing his job. He has to determine fit for duty following any illness of injury. Once you are off the medications, then he will be able to determine your fitness level and return you to work.
Thank you for your reply… I have had 5 back surgeries and am being treated on an on-going basis by a pain management doctor, so the prescription is legit and I do need to occasionally take Norco at night at bed time… I do not take it when I drive, so can he still dis-qualify me even though I have a prescription and don’t drive while taking it?
Do you know of an alternative medication that would not disqualify me?
Thank you for your time!
@Randall
Medical release form from the prescribing doctor and an explanation of the type of driving you do. Then it all boils down to what the CME feels may or may not be safety issues.
Once my nys medical is done, how do I inform Albany of my renewal?
@Gee
By mail: NYS Department of Motor Vehicles, Medical Certification Unit, PO Box 2601, Albany, NY 12228-0601
More info: http://dotphysicaldoctor.com/ny/
Can I upgrade my 6month d.o.t. medical if my blood pressure is 136/83?
@Mario
That will depend on your CME. He may upgrade you to a one year card at this point. Best bet is to contact the examiners office and confirm the information with them.
I received a three month DOT card because doctor says my neck is more than 17 inches and will renew it after sleep apnea test is done. One month before my medical card expires again can I still go to some where to get a new DOT card or this sleep apnea test must be done first?
@Edward
You can get a second opinion before you have a sleep study done. Neck size is not a valid symptom to determine OSA. So get a second opinion first.
For more information see these articles on sleep apnea screening and the DOT.
I received a 3 month dot medical card 5-16-16 for Urinalysis at 250 and blood glucose at 156. Do I have to go back to that clinic and get a A1C test done to get certified. If I can go to another clinic before my medical card expires do I have to take a A1C test,
@Daryl
There are some variables that are not in this question, like do you have and are being treated for diabetes?
A1c is not a mandatory test for the DOT, but with your numbers out of control the CME can request further testing.
That testing should be done with your primary doctor, not the CME’s facility. That would be a conflict of interest.
So give us a bit more clarity here and we will do our best to guide you in the correct direction.
I was under the impression from that clinic where they gave me a 3 month medical card that I had to return there before medical card expires and do a A1C test and if didn’t pass I would be disqualified. Have contacted texas dmv office and they said I can go anytime to another clinic and take another physical. if I pass urinalysis this time (which I will) there’s no blood test and therefore no diabetes and receive 2 year medical card. Is this correct?
@Daryl
If you are not being treated for diabetes with any medications, then you have been steered correctly.
156 seems rudely low for a 3 month card. Recently a doctor told me over 200 was disqualifying and the previous doctor in the same clinic told me 265 was the cutoff. No two doctors say the same thing when it comes to finger sticks.
Driver holds a Class B, only drives 4-6000lbs vehicle within the state of MN (intrastate). Is a medical Certificate/Health card required per FMCSA or DOT MN?
@Robert
Intrastate falls under state regulations.
See Minnesota CDL and DOT Medical Card Requirements.
My family doctor informed me that as of July they will no longer do DOT exams. What I didn’t find out until after the exam is that they do not have any more cards. She told me to get a card, bring it back and she will fill it out, stamp and sign it. My question is where do I get a card from? She didn’t know either. Thanks
@Manuel
See this article about the new DOT Medical Certification Forms: MCSA-5875 & MCSA-5876
TA has them
I have a 77-year-old driver just come in today and said that his DOT doctor told him, because of his age, he needed to get an EKG done, per regulations because of his age. It was not requested for last years physical. I’m trying to find the regulations to substantiate this request. Can you point me in the right direction?
Thanks,
@Kim
Unless there are other signs or symptoms that would necessitate further testing, then there is no such regulation that we are aware of.
If you are leased to a company under their insurance, do you have to have their name on the card?
@Tamy
No.
if a driver has had recent surgery which results in slight blood in the urine until completely healed, 6-8 weeks but his DOT physical is coming up if he has a note from the doctor that performed the surgery on his prostate help.
@Mr. S
Until he is completely released from the doctor without any restrictions, he will not pass the medical certification examination as medically fit for duty.
If the release is not going to come through until after the medical certificate expires, you want to talk to the local drivers license department to see what steps need to be taken to maintain his CDL until he can get a new medical certification card.
My self certification form was rejected because i chose the wrong classification. The retured letter claimed that i would be dowgraded if i didnt corect my error and resubmit the form. Well i never fixed the form or resubmited it. And it wasnt downgraded. Over one year later, no more letters, no downgrade. I have since had some law stuff happen. I would ne better off with a dowgraded license. Can i get big brother to retrograde my license to what it should have been since i got the downgrade warning letter? Any way at all?? Thanks.
@TC
Our expertise is on medical certification, not on driver licenses.
Your local drivers license department are the only people who can answer this question for you.
I had a stroke due to an aneurysm four years ago. Thank goodness I am not impaired physically or mentally. I was hired for a job which needs me to be DOT certified. I need to find a DOT certified neurologist or neurosurgeon to evaluate me. Do you have the name or location of one such Doctor?
@Jo
You’re not likely to find a DOT certified neurologist or neurosurgeon.
You best bet is to make sure you have a medical release form from your neurologist in hand before you go for your medical certificate examination. The release form will answer most of the questions that the CME will have up front. You can go to any DOT certified medical examiner to get your physical done, though in your case you want to look for a medical examiner who’ll fairly evaluate your overall health for medical fitness, not just disqualify you because they do a ‘checklist’ screening.
I wasn’t aware that after getting a new medical card that I had to let the driver’s license division get a copy of it in order to keep my cdl. I apparently was down graded for not doing so, so what do I have to do to get reinstated with my class a cdl
@James
Go see your local drivers license department. They downgraded you. Only they can reinstate you. Each state treats this process differently so you’ll need to speak with them.
How long is that card good for if that happens?
I received a three month Dot card because of high blood preasure. Do I need to see the same doctor to renew my card. I have been working with a doctor more local to address the issue.
@Brian
No. You can go to any certified medical examiner for your next physical.
How many years does medical background go
@James
The wording on the new form MCSA-5875 states “Do you have or have you ever had:” ….list of medical conditions. The answer choices are “Yes”; “No”; “Not Sure”.
If I am taking Suboxone for previous opioid abuse, I am stable on my medication, pass a weekly drug test, and have a letter from my Psychiatrist stating it is safe for me to drive on my medication… am I able to obtain a medical card?
@Ken
There will be lots of questions on this one. Your use of this medication is for control of a drug abuse situation. You will need a medical release form from your prescribing doctor and your SAP. Only then will any CME begin to entertain the idea of a valid medical card.
If a driver is on dialysis is he disqualified to carry CDL?
@Mozell
For an interstate driver, yes, he would be disqualified.
For an intra-state driver, you want to check with your local drivers license department. Each state has different guidelines and most have a policy that would allow you to work intra-state only.
My husband has passed his CDL for years and this year went to a different doctor and was told he had high blood pressure and was given a prescription and a 3 month extension and charged $85. He went back a few weeks later for a recheck, was told it was still high, they added another medication and charged our $20 copayment. I then took him a few weeks later to a partner of my doctor that I trust and he had full physical and his blood pressure was fine. He went back a few weeks later and it was still fine. My nurse also checked it during my visit and it was fine. He went back to the CDL Doctor a few weeks later and has now passed but was charged the full $85 all over again and only gave him another 9 months on his medical exam. I do not think he ever had a high blood pressure problem, this doctor is a fraud in our opinion and just kept billing us for as much as he could. Is he allowed to charge twice for the exam he only did once? This sounds like fraud to me.
@Donna
Starting April 20, 2016, with the new FMCSA DOT Physical forms/process there is no longer an option of an extension. The medical examiner can issue a short term medical card so the driver has time to get a medical condition under control.
A new examination has to be completed each time, with a new Medical Report form and a new Medical Certification. So doctors who used to help a driver with an extension can no longer do that, and so will be charging for a new exam each time.
On medication, with his blood pressure under control, the examiner could have issued the driver a new one year card.
I read a report By the general accounting office that says many of thousands of CDL drivers renew their medical certificates and cdl licenses while on total disability either on the federal or state level,how is this possible.I understand drivers wanting to keep their CDL in case their condition improves and they need to return to work but is this legal and will some agency eventually catch up to them?
@Jim
Not real sure where you got your information.
We find most of our class A drivers are working folks. Besides, before you can maintain a class A license you must be able to pass the DOT examination and be listed as ‘medically fit for duty’ before you can be issued a DOT medical certificate. Someone on total disability is not going to pass the examination.
Afternoon,
I was told that I could sign up another way for my CDL. I am currently not using them but do not want to lose them. Is there a way for me to not have to take a physical every year? When I was using them I did not travel out of the state.
Thank you,
Kathy
@Kathy
The only one who can answer this question for sure is your local drivers license department where you have your CDL.
Do you need to take the test results to dmv or does doctor send it over
@Joe
It is the drivers responsibility to update DMV with the current medical card, and possibly need to redo the self-certification form as well.
I am 70 yrs old if i go to renew my expired medical ( i have not been driving since 2013 ) will i be told im to old to drive now??
@Edward
If you can perform the duties of a CMV operator then age is not an issue. FMCSA does not have guidelines regarding your age. But you must be able to perform the duties and be seen as medically fit for duty.
If you are given a 3-month card and then return to the physician for a recheck, are you now required to obtain an entirely new physical or can they just check the status on whatever the medical condition was prior?
@Charla
It’s the CME’s call as to whether he wants a full new examination or just follow-up on questions. The new medical certification forms will probably require a new examination.
I have a class B CDI I want to get a Medical Card, Im on disability at this time. By me getting a medical card will that hurt my disability?
@Robert
You are on disability so you are not qualified as fit for duty for a medical card. If you clear for the medical card, then you are not disabled.
@ Trucker Docs:
Being unqualified for a medical card based on the fact that someone is on disability is not a valid reason. It is in fact against the ADA (American with Disability Act) law. Everyone has different types of disabilities, and being labeled “disabled” because you have disability benefits does not mean you are not able to use other limbs of your body to function at a job with or without reasonable accommodations. If you can pass a DOT, then you qualify. A disability has nothing to do with it unless it affects your DOT exam.
@Robert:
I advise you to speak with your primary doctor about working as a CDL driver, and if you are able enough to pass a DOT test. If your doctor gives you green light, then go to the office for DOT test. Complete your medical report as honesty as it would be if they contacted your primary doctor.
Does my company Pick up truck need a USDOT number and Do all DOT numbered vehicles need a CDL driver with medical card. For example a company pick up truck making deliveries and picking up parts and small supply runs.
@Richard
If you are driving for commercial purposes, then yes, most likely your State requires a medical card.
Check with your State DLD on these questions.
I have a class A, that I got for my retirement age fall back. as Iam a 6G certified welder with twenty years metal fab. behind me. iam not presently driving a commercial vehicle. but its time to renew my liscens and I don’t want to lose my class A’s. do I need an up to date med card to renew my liscens
@Dwayne
Yes, you need a current medical card on file with your license at your local drivers license department. If you do not keep your medical card current, your license will be suspended or downgraded.