FMCSA-certified DOT physical exams
🧠 Medical Conditions & Clearance
At DOT Modesto, we help you understand how your health affects your ability to pass your DOT physical. Here's what you need to know about common medical conditions and the FMCSA standards:
✅ High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- Pass: Blood pressure under 140/90 is acceptable for a two-year medical card.
- One-year certificate: If your blood pressure is 141–159/91–99, you may still pass but only get a one-year card.
- Temporary certificate: Blood pressure of 160–179/100–109 may result in a short-term medical card if being actively treated.
- Disqualify: Above 180/110 typically fails unless controlled urgently.
Tip: Take medications as prescribed and avoid caffeine, nicotine, and salt before your exam.
✅ Sleep Apnea
- If diagnosed with sleep apnea, you must show that you are using a CPAP machine regularly (at least 4 hours per night, 70% of the nights).
- Bring a 30-day CPAP compliance report to your exam.
- Untreated moderate or severe sleep apnea can disqualify you until treated and documented.
Tip: Use your CPAP every night leading up to the exam!
✅ Diabetes (Insulin Use & A1C)
Drivers with well-controlled diabetes (even insulin-dependent) can pass, but:
- You must have a Diabetes Assessment Form (MCSA-5870) completed by your treating provider.
- A1C should ideally be below 8%, but a safe range is typically less than 10%.
Severe complications like vision loss or neuropathy could affect certification.
Tip: Keep sugar levels stable and bring a copy of your most recent labs and specialist letter if needed.
✅ Heart Conditions
👉 You’ll need a cardiologist’s clearance letter stating you are safe to drive a commercial vehicle.
Also required: Stress test results (sometimes annually) depending on the condition.
If you have had:
- Heart attack
- Bypass surgery
- Stent placement
- Heart failure
- Irregular rhythms
Tip: Bring all documentation up front to avoid delays!
✅ Vision & Hearing Requirements
Vision Standards:
- At least 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without glasses or contacts)
- Ability to distinguish traffic signal colors (red, green, amber)
Hearing Standards:
- Must be able to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet (with or without a hearing aid)
- Audiometric tests are acceptable if needed
Tip: Bring your glasses, contacts, or hearing aids — don’t leave them at home!
🛣️ Bottom Line:
At DOT Modesto, we work with you to get you certified safely and legally.
Come prepared, bring your paperwork, and we’ll help you stay on the road!