Before you can obtain your CDL and start working in the commercial truck driving industry, you must pass a medical and physical examination. Keep reading to learn more about the requirements for these tests so you are prepared to pass when you finish your school program:
Vision Requirements
Since a person with a CDL will be operating a large commercial vehicle, it is essential that he or she has good vision. Before qualifying for a license, a driver must get a vision test that proves he or she has 20/40 correctable vision in each eye. It is okay if the driver requires glasses or contact lenses to reach this prescription.
Diabetes Requirements
A person operating a commercial vehicle cannot have diabetes that is controlled with needle-injected insulin. If a person has diabetes that can be controlled by diet, however, they can still qualify for the CDL. Every driver must have a blood sugar level below 200.
Blood Pressure Requirements
The DOT also has specific blood pressure requirements for drivers before they can get a CDL and start working in the industry. A driver must have blood pressure of 140/90 or less in order to get the 24-month DOT Medical Certificate. If blood pressure ranges from 140-159/90-99, they can qualify for a 12-month certificate. Drivers with blood pressure of 160-179/100-109 can get a 3-month temporary certificate. Anyone with blood pressure over 180/110 cannot get a certificate until the blood pressure is under control.
Other Medical Requirements
There are other medical requirements that can affect your ability to obtain your CDL. If you have sleep apnea, a back injury, or a hernia, it might affect your chances of getting the license.
The teachers at HDS Truck Driving Institute can help you figure out what you need to do to get your CDL and start working. Our truck-driving school gives you the information you need to get your license quickly. To learn more about our programs, visit us online or call (877) 205-2141.
