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The Penalty for Lying on a DOT Physical

Written by Nick Webster

Published on Dec. 11, 2023, 2:33 p.m.

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The penalty for lying on a DOT physical will vary depending on the lie that someone uses. No matter what, lying on a Department of Transportation physical can have serious consequences. Depending on the severity of the lie, it could result in a misdemeanor charge or even jail time. It is important to remember that falsifying medical records is a federal offense, and lying during medical examinations can be considered fraud. In addition, anyone found guilty of deliberately misrepresenting information could face fines of up to $250,000 and up to five years in prison. Read about USDOT Number. Learn here How to Prepare for a Compliance DOT Audit.









Because of the consequences mentioned above. it is essential for everyone undergoing a DOT physical to answer all questions honestly and accurately to avoid any potential future penalties. Furthermore, individuals may also lose their ability to work as a commercial drivers if they are found guilty of lying during their DOT physicals. All this means one simple thing. It's best not to lie when it comes to DOT physicals.



What Will the FMCSA Do If I Lie on My DOT Physical?



Here is the key information that the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) provides about lying on DOT physicals:


  • Lying on a DOT physical examination carries serious consequences.
  • In addition to violations of any applicable federal, state, or local laws that may apply, you can be subject to civil penalties from the FMCSA.
  • Depending on the severity of the offense and your prior history with the FMCSA, these penalties could include fines of up to $11,000 and/or disqualification from operating a commercial vehicle for up to one year.
  • The FMCSA also reserves the right to pursue further criminal prosecution if it believes you have committed fraud or falsified documents related to your DOT medical exam.
  • All information provided during this process must be accurate. If it’s not, chances are, the DOT and FMCSA will notice right away.


What Happens If I Fail My DOT Physical?



If you fail your DOT physical, it's not the end of the world. You don't have to give up on your dreams of becoming a truck driver or commercial vehicle operator just yet! The first step is finding out what went wrong and addressing any underlying health concerns. Depending on the outcomes of the medical examination, you may need to provide additional information or seek second opinions from other healthcare professionals. What is DOT Clearinghouse Enforcement?

Once these issues are resolved, you can apply for another appointment with a qualified health professional and take another DOT physical. With some effort and dedication, you'll be back behind the wheel in no time! Good luck!



What Are Common Reasons for Drivers Failing the DOT Physical?



There are several common reasons drivers fail the DOT physical. A medical history that includes certain conditions can render a driver ineligible for a DOT certification. These include:


  • cardiovascular problems
  • epilepsy
  • other seizure disorders
  • diabetes requiring insulin shots
  • severe sleep apnea
  • vision impairments.
  • physical impairments such as weakness in extremities
  • impaired range of motion


It is important to note that any condition affecting a driver’s ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely will disqualify him or her from passing the DOT physical exam. Furthermore, any use of illicit substances is an automatic failure regardless of if a doctor has prescribed them or not. You will need driver qualification files filed out by all employees who drive for you working.


Are There FMCSA Exemptions for the DOT Physical?



Yes, several FMCSA exemptions are available for drivers who need to pass a DOT physical. These exemption agreements are generally accepted as alternatives to the standard medical examination for drivers with specific health conditions. The most common of these is the grandfather” clause which applies to drivers operating within a certain radius of their home base and who can certify they have held an equivalent or better license in the past two years.

Other exemptions include those for:

  • diabetes
  • vision impairment
  • hearing impairment
  • cardiovascular issues

Each exemption may have its own requirements that must be met before it is granted, so applicants need to know what these are when applying for an exemption. It's also important to note that FMCSA exemptions may only last for a limited time. Then, the driver might need to undergo another physical exam.



Can Drivers Receive Second Opinions on Their DOT Physicals?



Absolutely! Regarding your health, getting a second opinion is always a good idea. If you're unsure about the results of your DOT physical, you can easily seek additional opinions from other medical providers qualified to conduct DOT exams. A second opinion can be especially helpful if you have any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely, such as diabetes or heart disease.

By getting an extra opinion, you can make sure you get the necessary treatment and clearance for driving commercial vehicles. It's also important to remember that a DOT physical is not just about passing or failing – it's about making sure that drivers stay healthy and safe on the road. With a second opinion in hand, drivers are taking the right precautions to avoid future problems and keep our roads safe.



Do I Have To Have Health Insurance Before Getting My DOT Physical Exam?



No need to worry if you don't have health insurance - you can still get a DOT physical exam! All you have to do is find an approved medical examiner on FMCSA's National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners and book an appointment. Unless your trucking company covers the costs, you'll likely need to pay out-of-pocket for your examination. Don't let a lack of health insurance stop you from staying safe on the roads. You can get your DOT physical today, even without proper insurance coverage.



What Are the DOT's Disqualifying Medical Conditions?



The DOT defines certain medical conditions as disqualifying” for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. As part of the licensing process, CMV drivers must complete a physical examination to attest that they are physically fit and capable of performing their job. The following is a partial list of disqualifying medical conditions as outlined by the DOT:

• Poor vision or hearing that cannot be corrected with glasses or contacts

• Heart disease, stroke, Diabetes Mellitus, epilepsy, neurological disorders, and mental illness

• High blood pressure requiring medication

• Any respiratory disorder that affects breathing on an ongoing basis

• Kidney dysfunction

• Alcoholism or drug use, such as marijuana


Who Do I Go To for the DOT Medical Card?



The answer is simple: any federally certified medical examiner can issue you a DOT Medical Card. These medical professionals have been trained and tested by Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration standards, so they are qualified to perform all the necessary tests. To find one near you, simply search online for FMCSA-certified medical examiners” in your area. What is DOT Clearinghouse Enforcement?



How Long Should It Take To Get the DOT Medical Certificate?



Getting your DOT Medical Certificate shouldn't be a long, drawn-out process. The whole thing can usually be done in one day or less! A physical examination with your health care provider is generally required if you wish to receive the medical certificate.

Depending on how busy the office is, this part of the process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and a half. After that, the healthcare provider should only take another 15 minutes to complete all necessary certification paperwork. Altogether, you should expect no more than two hours to complete the entire process. Now, that's what we call efficient! Visit DOT Authority Package, Tips to prepare for 2023 DOT Week filings in minutes. How do you get an Oregon Trip And Fuel Permit?


What Is the Average Cost of a DOT Physical?



The average cost of a DOT physical ranges from $50 to $100, depending on the provider. Be sure to ask ahead of time so there are no surprises when you show up for your exam! Read here about Starting a Trucking Company Correctly.


What Should I Avoid Before My DOT Physical?



Here are some everyday things to avoid before undergoing a physical exam by the DOT:

  • Before you get your DOT physical, avoid activities requiring high concentration and focus. That means no playing video games or intense mental tasks like doing taxes!
  • Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the physical - this includes medications that contain alcohol.
  • Don't schedule any dental procedures before the physical either; these can cause bleeding problems during the exam.
  • Stay away from any type of drugs, legal or illegal, 24 hours before the physical. This is especially important if you're taking any prescription medications because they may affect how well specific tests, like vision screenings, go.
  • Get a good night's sleep before your exam so you're alert and focused when it comes time to answer questions.


Does the DOT Physical Exam Involve a Urine Test?



Yes. The DOT Physical Exam does involve a urine test. This test checks for creatinine and protein levels to ensure proper kidney function. It also screens for any trace amounts of illegal substances that may be present in the body. Although this test is required, it should not cause worry for those taking it. The presence or absence of specific substances does not necessarily mean that someone has or does not have medical clearance to drive a commercial vehicle. Rather, these results will simply inform the doctor about the patient's overall health.



Contact Us To Learn More Information About DOT Physicals



Our organization is standing by to provide you with more info about DOT physical exams. For example, we can tell you more about the penalty for lying on DOT physical. Or, how many times can you fail a DOT physical? Remember, lying on DOT physical exams is usually considered a crime. But do not stress about failing a physical. What happens if you fail DOT physical? Well, you can retake it through another medical examiner. You might wonder, ‘How soon can I retake a DOT physical.’ In most cases, you can retake the exam right away. Say you have a disability for failing DOT physical. The doctor will communicate with you about the disability. This way, you can find career solutions. For additional programs, check out MCS-150. Must visit FMCSA Hours of Service Suspended topics.



Key Takeaways: The Penalties for Lying on DOT Physicals



  • Lying on a DOT physical can result in fines and other penalties.
  • Depending on the violation, individuals may face civil penalties of up to $2,750 for each false statement made.
  • In addition to fines, individuals will likely also face suspension or revocation of their medical examiner’s certificate.
  • Employers can also be held accountable if they allow employees with falsified information to remain employed without being medically certified.
  • If it is found that an employer knowingly allowed a driver with a falsified DOT exam report to operate, they could be subject to civil penalties of up to $10,000 per occurrence.
  • Employers may also be liable for damages incurred.
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