04/11/2026
DOT PHYSICAL HANDOUT: DISQUALIFYING CONDITIONS & MEDICATIONS
Based on guidelines from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
PURPOSE
A DOT physical ensures that commercial drivers are medically qualified to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle. Certain health conditions and medications may prevent certification.
AUTOMATIC / STRICT DISQUALIFIERS
The following conditions are typically disqualifying:
Vision: Worse than 20/40 in either eye (with correction) or inability to distinguish red, green, and amber
Hearing: Unable to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet
Seizure Disorders: Epilepsy or uncontrolled seizures (unless federally exempted)
HEART & CARDIOVASCULAR CONDITIONS
May require specialist clearance or may be disqualifying:
Recent heart attack
Chest pain (angina)
Irregular heart rhythms
Heart failure
Implanted defibrillator
Note: Clearance from a cardiologist is often required.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Severe hypertension (≥180/110) will result in disqualification until controlled
May qualify for temporary certification once improving
DIABETES
Insulin-treated diabetes requires proper federal documentation
Poor control or missing lab results (A1C, glucose logs) may delay certification
SLEEP APNEA & RESPIRATORY CONDITIONS
Untreated or uncontrolled sleep apnea may disqualify you
CPAP compliance documentation is required if diagnosed
MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS
May be disqualifying if not stable:
Severe depression
Bipolar disorder
Schizophrenia
Must be well-managed with provider support and documentation.
SUBSTANCE USE
Illegal drug use = automatic disqualification
Alcohol abuse = disqualification
Failed DOT drug test = disqualification
MEDICATIONS OF CONCERN
Narcotics / Opioids
Examples: oxycodone, hydrocodone
Typically disqualifying unless cleared by prescribing provider
Benzodiazepines (Anti-Anxiety)
Examples: Xanax, Va**um
May impair driving ability and lead to disqualification
Sleep Aids / Sedatives
Examples: Ambien, Lunesta
Can affect alertness and reaction time
Stimulants (e.g., ADHD medications)
Allowed only with proper diagnosis and documentation
Medical Ma*****na
Not permitted under DOT regulations
OTHER POSSIBLE DISQUALIFIERS
Conditions causing dizziness or loss of consciousness
Neurological disorders affecting coordination
Untreated serious medical conditions
Lack of required medical documentation
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
Many conditions are not permanently disqualifying if properly treated
Bring all required medical documentation to your appointment
Be honest about your medical history and medications
BOTTOM LINE
Certification depends on one key factor:
Can you safely operate a commercial vehicle?
Being prepared with documentation and stable medical conditions improves your chances of certification.
Questions? Contact our office before your appointment so we can help you prepare.
423-543-7000
