Individuals who operate commercial vehicles must pass a physical examination administered by the Department of Transportation (DOT). The purpose of a DOT physical is to verify the physical, mental, and emotional fitness of those operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), such as heavy trucks and buses.

In this post, we’ll particularly talk about Blood Pressure, what truckers need to get DOT Physical, requirements for drivers with hypertension to keep their CDL, and more.

Note: To go over the basics, such as blood pressure categories, how it affects trucking, can someone with hypertension pass a DOT physical exam, and more.

Everything You Need To Know About Hypertension And DOT Physical

How Often Do Drivers Take The DOT Physical If They Have High Blood Pressure?

This depends on how serious the driver’s blood pressure problems are. For example, instead of the usual biannual exams, annual physicals are required for Stage 1 hypertension.

Driving is permitted in Stage 2, but drivers must learn to manage their blood pressure.

Truck drivers in Stage 3 must first lower their blood pressure to resume operating a commercial motor vehicle.

How Can I Regulate My Blood Pressure Before A DOT Physical?

Death, a stroke, and a heart attack can result from high blood pressure. Even a small reduction in blood pressure could lower these risks significantly.

There are various strategies for truck drivers with chronic hypertension to decrease their blood pressure and manage their condition. These may involve changing their diet, such as cutting back on sodium and working out frequently.

Many drivers want to make sure their blood pressure is under control on the day of the DOT exam. Drivers can quickly lower their blood pressure on the day of their physical by performing the following easy actions:

• Stay away from alcohol, smoke, and caffeine.
• Consider Inspiratory Muscle Strength Training (IMST).
• Always stay hydrated and drink lots of water.
• Eat a banana because studies have shown that potassium lowers blood pressure.
• Drink beet juice.
• Take a nap.
• Have a work-life balance.
• Engage in deep breathing exercises. (This is a video of a basic “belly breathing” exercise.)

What Are the Requirements For Drivers With Hypertension To Keep Their CDL?

Uncontrolled blood pressure can keep a truck driver off the road, according to DOT regulations. Drivers with hypertension are required to provide proof that their condition is under control to recertify their CDL.

The Medical Examiner will electronically file a copy of the physical examination to the DOT when CMV drivers take their DOT physical. It will be incorporated into the Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS) driver’s record.

Your CDL privileges may be suspended by the state if your medical certification expires. That said, maintaining your medical certification up to date is important as this will be reflected in a driver’s record in the CDLIS. 

Which Prescription Medicines For Hypertension Are Allowed For Truckers?

A “Master List” of prescription medications that are forbidden for any ailment is not maintained by the DOT or the FMCSA. Your physician will determine whether or not your medication could negatively affect your ability to drive a truck properly and safely.

According to FMCSA:

“A driver cannot take a controlled substance or prescription medication without a prescription from a licensed practitioner. If a driver uses a drug identified in 21 CFR 1308.11 (391.42(b)(12)) or any other substance such as amphetamine, a narcotic, or any other habit-forming drug, The driver is medically unqualified. There is an exception: the prescribing doctor can write that the driver is safe to be a commercial driver while taking the medication. In this case, the Medical Examiner may but does not have to certify the driver. Any anti-seizure medication used for the prevention of seizures is disqualifying. Methadone use is disqualifying.”

Medical examiners have two ways to know if the medication provided to the driver can impair the safe operation of a commercial motor vehicle, including:

1. Examine all of your prescription, over-the-counter, and supplemental medications.

2. Ask for the prescribing physician’s letter.

Types Of Blood Pressure Medication

Blood pressure medications come in a variety of forms that are intended to address different aspects of hypertension. Truckers who work with a physician can choose which one is best for them. A mix of drugs may be the best course of action in certain situations. The following list includes some typical blood pressure drugs that drivers may take in an effort to manage their elevated blood pressure:

• ACE inhibitors
• Alpha-blockers
• Beta-blockers
• Calcium Channel Blockers
• Diuretics
• And more!

What Blood Pressure Medication Information Is Needed for Truckers?

When using medication that has been recommended to them by a doctor, commercial motor vehicle drivers should constantly be aware of any negative side effects or reactions. If the prescribed hypertension medicine were proven to not cause adverse effects on driving, the patient or trucker may be medically certified to drive.

*** Only take prescription drugs under a doctor’s supervision. Misusing legal medications might have terrible consequences! ***

How Much Is A Blood Pressure Monitor?

A Commercial motor vehicle driver should manage their health if they are at risk of high blood pressure. Making healthier lifestyle choices is a great place to start. Investing in a blood pressure monitor might also be beneficial.

For blood pressure monitors used at home, there are numerous options. There are reasonably priced, excellent monitors out there, ranging from $20 and $200.

Final Note:

As they say, “Health is wealth,” and this is true even when as a truck driver. Not only is there a chance for you to fail DOT Physical, but you are also putting yourself and others at risk. That said, it’s important to prioritize health at all times.