DOT Physical Blood Pressure Chart: Hypertension Stages, Temporary Cards, and FMCSA Rules in Charlotte, NC
FMCSA Hypertension Stages and Maximum Card Lengths
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) uses three specific stages of hypertension (high blood pressure) to determine the maximum length of your medical certificate. Certification is always based on the highest reading taken during the physical exam.
| FMCSA Blood Pressure Stage | Reading (Systolic/Diastolic) | Maximum Certification Period |
|---|---|---|
| Normal (Optimal) | Below 140/90 | 2 Years (If NOT on blood pressure medication) |
| Stage 1 Hypertension | 140–159 / 90–99 | 1 Year (If certified at this level) |
| Stage 2 Hypertension | 160–179 / 100–109 | 3 Months (One-time temporary card only) |
| Stage 3 Hypertension | 180/110 or Higher | Disqualification (Until pressure is reduced) |
Rules for Blood Pressure Medication
If your blood pressure is controlled with medication, the rules change regarding the maximum certificate length, even if your reading is excellent (e.g., 120/80):
Key Rule: Medication Limits Certification If you are taking blood pressure medication (hypertension, anxiety, etc.), the maximum certificate length you can receive is 1 year, even if your blood pressure is well below 140/90.
If you are on medication and your blood pressure is still above 140/90, you will be issued a one-time 3-month temporary card and advised to follow up with your primary physician to adjust your treatment.
The 3-Month Temporary Card Rule (Stage 2)
If your blood pressure reading is in the Stage 2 range (160–179 / 100–109), the medical examiner can issue you a one-time, temporary 3-month certificate.
- This is to give you time to seek treatment and reduce your blood pressure.
- You must return within 3 months to be re-checked.
- If, at the re-check, your blood pressure is below 140/90, you will be eligible for a full 1-year certificate.
- If it is still elevated, you will be disqualified until control is achieved.
Immediate Disqualification (Stage 3)
A reading of 180/110 or higher is considered Stage 3 Hypertension and results in immediate temporary disqualification.
To be eligible for certification again:
- Your blood pressure must be reduced to less than 140/90.
- Once controlled, you can be issued a 6-month certificate immediately.
- After that initial 6-month certificate period, you are eligible for the standard 1-year card for subsequent exams, provided the condition remains stable.
Your Action Plan to Pass in Charlotte, NC
To ensure you pass your DOT physical without delay at the Charlotte DOT Exam Center:
- Check Your Blood Pressure: Check your blood pressure at home or a pharmacy several days before your appointment to know your current status.
- Take Medication: Take all prescribed blood pressure medication as normal on the day of the exam. Do not skip doses.
- Avoid Stimulants: Avoid caffeine, tobacco, and intense exercise for at least 30 minutes before your exam, as these can artificially raise your reading.
- Schedule Your Exam: If you are concerned about your pressure, call us to schedule your exam and discuss any necessary follow-up.
Need Your DOT Physical Done by an FMCSA Expert in Blood Pressure Guidelines?
Get certified by an FMCSA-Certified Medical Examiner who understands the stages of hypertension and how to manage your certificate.
Examiner: Dr. Lemuel P. Byrd, Jr., D.C.
Call Now: (704) 544-3494
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm | Saturday 9am-12pm
Location: 8415 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite 102, Charlotte, NC 28226
Cost: $70 | No Wait Policy | Walk-ins & Appointments Welcome
