If you want to operate any type of commercial vehicle, you are required to pass a DOT Physical. This is a mandatory requirement, and you actually need to complete the physical every 2 years, or even more often depending on the state you live in. it’s very important to ensure that you are ready for the DOT physical, and we are here to help with some guidance and support.
Can you fail the DOT Physical?
Most of the time, you will have no problem passing the DOT Physical. There are some situations when you can end up failing the physical, especially due to various health issues. High blood pressure, diabetes, substance abuse, heart issues, respiratory or psychiatric problems, nervous system issues all of these can lead to you not passing the DOT Physical.
On top of that, you can also fail the DOT Physical if you use any habit forming drug, narcotics or amphetamine. Even drugs prescribed by the doctor can lead to you failing this physical. That’s why it’s important to assess these things beforehand. With that in mind, the FMCSA will grant exemptions for some of the conditions.
The main focus is for the driver to show that they can operate the vehicle safely and not pose any threat to other people or themselves. These exemptions are named variances and they can be suitable for people that have hearing issues, vision problems or even diabetes.
Ways to prevent failing the DOT Physical
The best thing you can do is to ensure that you go to the doctor and perform a complete health checkup. It allows you to identify any health problems and then you can address them properly. It makes things a lot easier for you, since you can eliminate any concerns and worries that you might fail the DOT Physical. Taking breaks during long hauls is important, and you also want to work on your cardio, perform some
stretches and so on. Additionally, sticking to a healthy diet is very important. It can be very easy to end up eating fast food and not take care of your health on the road. That’s why making sure you stick with a healthy diet is crucial, and that’s certainly one of the things to take into consideration.
Also, if you have a note from a medical specialist that talks about your condition, bring it to the DOT Physical. As we mentioned above, there are some exemptions depending on the situation, and that might be the case in your own situation.
Conclusion
Following these tips and tricks will help you ensure that you avoid failing the DOT Physical. But even if
you fail it for some reason, the Department of Transportation will allow drivers to get a second opinion.
That means you can still prepare and ensure your health is in order for a redo of the DOT Physical. Make
sure that you take good care of your health and solve any possible problems, then you will have no issue
passing your DOT Physical.
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