CDL Blood Pressure Requirements for Commercial Driver’s License Exams

At Reliable MD, we understand how crucial it is for commercial drivers to maintain their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) medical certification. One of the most important aspects of the Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam is monitoring your blood pressure.

 For CDL blood pressure requirements:

• If your blood pressure is below 140/90, you may be certified for up to 2 years.

• If it’s 140-159 systolic / 90-99 diastolic (Stage 1 hypertension), you may be certified for 1 year.

• If it’s 160-179 systolic / 100-109 diastolic (Stage 2 hypertension), you may get a 3-month certificate. If you lower your blood pressure during that time, you could be certified for 1 year.

If it’s 180 or higher systolic / 110 or higher diastolic (Stage 3 hypertension), you will be disqualified until your blood pressure is controlled.

Medication and other health factors can affect your certification period. Always consult with your medical examiner for your specific situation. Regular blood pressure monitoring isn’t just essential for your CDL—it’s vital for your long-term health. At Reliable MD, we’re committed to helping you manage your health so you can maintain your livelihood. Our team provides comprehensive check-ups, practical treatment plans, and ongoing support to help you stay compliant with DOT medical requirements and reduce your risk of hypertension-related health issues.

At Reliable MD, we know how important your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is to your career. During your required Department of Transportation (DOT) physical, your blood pressure is a key part of the evaluation. DOT guidelines are strict, and our experienced medical providers at Reliable MD follow these protocols to help you maintain your certification and stay healthy on the road. If your blood pressure is too high during a CDL exam:

• Stage 1 Hypertension (140-159 systolic / 90-99 diastolic): You may still pass, but will likely receive a 1-year certification instead of the standard 2 years.

• Stage 2 Hypertension (160-179 systolic / 100-109 diastolic): You might be given a 3-month certification. During this time, you’ll need to lower your blood pressure to pass for a longer certification period.

• Stage 3 Hypertension (180 or higher systolic / 110 or higher diastolic): You will be disqualified until your blood pressure is controlled. Once controlled, you can be recertified in 6-month intervals.

If your blood pressure is high during your CDL exam at Reliable MD, our team will work with you to create a plan for evaluation and treatment. We’re here to help you manage your blood pressure through lifestyle changes, medication, and follow-up care. Once your blood pressure is under control, we’ll re-evaluate you so you can get back on the road as soon as possible. Maintaining healthy blood pressure is essential for your safety and career. At Reliable MD, we’re committed to providing the guidance, support, and care you need to keep your CDL and drive with confidence.

At Reliable MD, we understand the importance of maintaining your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and keeping you healthy on the road. As part of your required Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination, blood pressure monitoring is a key component.

For CDL certification, your blood pressure will be checked during each medical exam:

• If your blood pressure is normal (below 140/90), you may only need to have it checked every 2 years during the CDL exam.

• If you have high blood pressure, the medical examiner may require you to get it checked more frequently, such as annually or every 3-6 months, depending on how well your blood pressure is controlled. This is especially true if you are on medication or if your blood pressure fluctuates.

Additionally, if you are prescribed medication for high blood pressure, the examiner may ask for documentation from your doctor to ensure that your condition is being effectively managed. If your blood pressure is elevated, the examiner may also recommend follow-up visits to ensure that you’re on track to meet the certification standards.

Regular monitoring and proper management are key to maintaining your CDL certification. At Reliable MD, our experienced team will guide you through the process, provide personalized recommendations, and help you manage your blood pressure with lifestyle modifications, medications if necessary, and regular follow-up visits.

At Reliable MD, we understand that obtaining and maintaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is essential for your career. You can still get a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) if you have high blood pressure, but it depends on how well your condition is controlled. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that your blood pressure must be under a certain limit, typically 140/90 mm Hg or lower, to pass the medical exam for a CDL.

If your blood pressure exceeds this limit, you may still qualify for a CDL by demonstrating that the condition is managed with medication and that your blood pressure is consistently within the required range. It’s essential to consult with your medical examiner and follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re meeting the necessary health standards.

Our providers at Reliable MD can help you monitor your blood pressure and adjust your treatment plan as needed. If you have questions or concerns about your blood pressure and how it may affect your CDL eligibility, Reliable MD is here to help. We’ll provide personalized advice and support every step of the way to help you maintain your health and your livelihood.

Dr. Carlos Levy at Reliable MD in Sarasota, FL, is committed to helping you meet the blood pressure standards required for your CDL exam. Dr. Levy specializes in the management of high blood pressure and works closely with you to ensure that your blood pressure remains within the necessary range of 140/90 mm Hg or lower, as required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

With Dr. Levy’s personalized care and expertise, you will receive a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle modifications, dietary recommendations, and medication management to effectively control your blood pressure. His thorough approach ensures that you are fully prepared for your CDL medical exam, helping you meet the health requirements needed to obtain and maintain your commercial driver’s license. Whether you need ongoing monitoring or advice on managing hypertension, Dr. Levy’s expertise will guide you every step of the way.

For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2801 Fruitville Rd Unit 140, Sarasota, FL 34237. We serve patients in Sarasota County on Fruitville Rd, which is close to Whitfield Ave, Bee Ridge Rd, Lockwood Ridge Rd, and beyond! We also provide telehealth services, serving the entire state of Florida.