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The Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates physical exams for individuals seeking to obtain or renew a commercial driver's license (CDL). The DOT physical evaluates if drivers are mentally and physically fit to safely operate a commercial vehicle, exceeding the scope of a typical medical check-up.
According to the Department of Transportation, the exam checks multiple health aspects, including vision, hearing, blood pressure, and potential chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Specific examinations involve vision acuity and peripheral vision, requiring at least 20/40 vision in each eye.
The hearing test assesses a driver's ability to perceive a forced whisper from five feet away or average hearing with less than 40-decibel loss through an audiometry test. For blood pressure, a reading of 140/90 or lower is necessary.
Diabetic drivers must demonstrate controlled blood glucose levels. Those using insulin might require additional documentation. Sleep apnea is also reviewed, with compliance to treatment being crucial. DOT regulations also mandate drivers avoid alcohol before driving, enforced through separate random testing outside the physical exam.
Preparation for the exam involves reviewing medical history, submitting necessary documentation, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. CareFirst Urgent Care is certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to conduct such exams. According to CareFirst, they provide quick appointments and accept most insurances.
Failure to pass the physical can occur if certain health standards are unmet, such as unmanaged sleep apnea or substance abuse issues. However, addressing issues through medical intervention or lifestyle changes may allow for retesting.
Completion of the exam results in the issuance of a Medical Examiner's Certificate if passed, valid for up to two years.
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