Genuine Care, AlwaysDOT & CDL
Medical Exams
DOT & CDL Medical Certification Done Quick!
Here at Northwest Aviation Medicine uur goal is for you to leave our office with your DOT or CDL Medical Certificate in hand. We’re dedicated to offering personalized assistance and steadfast support throughout the entire DOT Exam process.
Great Patient Stories
Understanding DOT Physicals
We understand the crucial role that driving plays in your life, and Dr. Lemmon’s role as a Certified Medical Examiner (CME) lends a unique perspective to our approach for your DOT or CDL Exam. If any concerns arise, know that we’ll work closely with you to find the best solutions and get you back on the road promptly.
A DOT physical is a mandatory health assessment stipulated by the FMCSA for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. It serves to establish if a driver possesses the necessary physical, mental, and emotional fitness to safely operate a CMV.
Who Needs a DOT Physical?
- Operate a vehicle designed for transporting more than 15 individuals.
- Receive compensation for driving a vehicle designed to transport more than 8 individuals. Transport hazardous materials that necessitate your vehicle to display a placard.
- Transport hazardous materials that necessitate your vehicle to display a placard.
- Drive a vehicle on interstate routes with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR), gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), or gross combination weight exceeding 10,000 pounds.
Given the nature of your profession as a commercial driver, you are classified as a “safety-sensitive” employee. Both for your own well-being and the safety of the public, the FMCSA insists on the completion and successful passing of a DOT physical as a prerequisite for maintaining a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).
During this examination, a certified medical examiner assesses various aspects of your health, including vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical condition. Additionally, they review your medical history to identify any potential concerns that might affect your ability to operate a CMV safely.
At Northwest Aviation Medicine, we understand the significance of this evaluation for your livelihood. Our team, led by Dr. Lemmon, a certified medical examiner, is dedicated to conducting thorough and supportive DOT physicals. We work closely with you to ensure you meet all necessary requirements, providing clear guidance and addressing any concerns you may have. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.
Driver Exemption Programs
General Exemptions
The Federal Diabetes and Vision Exemption Programs, along with requests for hearing and seizure exemptions, entail specific criteria and documentation.
This encompasses medical examinations, employment background, driving proficiency, and motor vehicle records, all of which must be included in the application. Following the receipt of a comprehensive application, the Agency commits to delivering a final decision within 180 days. This process ensures thorough consideration and prioritizes safety and compliance.
Vision Exemption
If you find it challenging to meet the specified vision requirements, you may still qualify through the FMCSA Vision Exemption Package. For a detailed breakdown of these requirements, kindly visit the FMCSA website using the provided link here. This resource will provide comprehensive information on eligibility criteria and steps to follow.
Medications
Medications can significantly influence a driver’s mental state and level of alertness, potentially impairing their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
For detailed insights into Disqualifying Medications, we recommend visiting the FMCSA website through the provided link above. This resource offers valuable information about medications that may impact a driver’s eligibility for operating commercial vehicles. Staying informed about the effects of medications is crucial for road safety.
Be ReadyWhat to Anticipate During a DOT Physical Examination
CDL/DOT Certification Steps:
Step 1:
Schedule Your Appointment
Step 2:
Complete CDL form via our super Intake form
Step 3:
Don't forget to check your spam folder!
Schedule Your Appointment
What Medical Conditions Can Prevent You From Obtaining a DOT Card?
- Uncontrolled or unstable heart conditions
- Epilepsy or seizure disorders
- Meniere’s disease, an inner ear
- disorder causing dizziness
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Vision loss that cannot be corrected
- Hearing loss that cannot be corrected
- Use of marijuana, even if prescribed
- Use of illegal substances
- Use of oxygen therapy
- Some respiratory conditions
- Presence of protein in the urine, potentially indicating kidney disease
The eligibility for some of these conditions may be at the discretion of the medical examiner. In certain cases, you might seek an exemption or waiver from the FMCSA. Temporary disqualification may occur until you bring a medical condition under control. If you successfully manage and resolve a disqualifying condition, you can reapply for certification.
Better Care is Our Mission
Our Location
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Our Satellites:
Every 1,2, and 4th Tuesday ONLY
09:00AM - 1:00PM
Every 3rd Tuesday ONLY
09:00AM - 1:00PM
Working Hours
Tuesday: 8:30AM - 2:00PM
Wednesday: 1:00PM - 7:30PM
Thursday: 8:30PM - 2:00PM
Friday - 10:00AM - 2:00PM
Contact Us
Northwest Aviation Medicine specializes in a range of specialized medical consultations tailored to specific certification requirements. This encompasses FAA medical examinations, DOT/FMCSA/CDL exams designed specifically for commercial drivers, and Pre-Participation Exams for various sports and activities.
Our experienced team is dedicated to providing thorough and reliable medical evaluations, ensuring individuals meet the precise criteria for their intended certifications.
We take pride in our flexibility and are delighted to accommodate any specific requests you may have when filling out our contact form.
We go the extra mile to guide you through the process and address any potential issues, ensuring you walk out of our office with the certification you need.
If there are any pre-existing conditions that may potentially hinder you from obtaining your desired certification, we’d be more than happy to discuss and assist in addressing them. With a focus on accuracy and efficiency, we are committed to your success in obtaining the certifications you require.
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