DOT Medical Conditions & Clearance
Understand how your health affects your ability to pass your DOT physical and what the FMCSA standards require.
Schedule Your DOT PhysicalHigh 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.
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, plus stress test results (sometimes annually) 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!
Come Prepared, Stay on the Road
Bring your paperwork and we'll help you get certified safely and legally. Schedule your DOT physical today.