What is the FMCSA whisper test requirement for the DOT physical?

The requirement is the ability to perceive a forced whisper from no less than 5 feet away in at least one ear, with or without a hearing aid.

Can I use hearing aids for the DOT physical and still pass?

Yes, the FMCSA explicitly permits the use of hearing aids to meet the minimum hearing standards. If you use them to pass, you must wear them at all times while operating a CMV.

What is the audiometry standard for the DOT physical?

If a driver fails the whisper test, they must pass the audiometry test. The average hearing loss across the frequencies of 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in the better ear must not exceed 40 dB.

Does wearing a hearing aid shorten my medical card length?

No. Unlike some other medical conditions, the use of a hearing aid to meet the hearing standard does not impose any restrictions on the medical card length. You can still receive a full 2-year certificate if all other standards are met.

What should I do if I fail the whisper test due to earwax?

Temporary blockage from excessive earwax (cerumen) is a common cause of failure. The medical examiner can often refer you for quick removal, and you can be re-tested immediately after removal to be certified.

DOT Physical Hearing Test: FMCSA Whisper Standards, Hearing Aids, and Audiometry Rules in Charlotte, NC

DOT Physical Hearing Test

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: To pass the DOT hearing test, you must be able to perceive a forced whisper from 5 feet away in at least one ear (with or without a hearing aid). If you fail the whisper test, you must pass the audiometric test where your average hearing loss does not exceed 40 dB at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz.

In This Guide:

FMCSA Forced Whisper Test Standard
The Audiometric Exam Alternative
Using Hearing Aids for the DOT Physical
Tips to Pass the Hearing Test
Your Action Plan to Pass in Charlotte, NC

The FMCSA Forced Whisper Test Standard

The standard hearing test administered by the DOT Medical Examiner is the Forced Whisper Test. This is a quick, subjective assessment to confirm you can perceive sounds necessary for safe commercial driving, such as emergency vehicle sirens or air brake leaks.

Minimum Hearing Requirements:

Distance: You must be positioned at least 5 feet away from the examiner.
Sound: You must be able to hear the examiner’s forced whisper (or soft speaking voice).
Acuity: The standard is met if you pass the test in at least one ear (right, left, or both).
Key Point: You are permitted to use a hearing aid during this test.

How the Whisper Test is Administered

The examiner will occlude (block) one of your ears and whisper words or numbers from 5 feet away. They will then repeat the process for the other ear. The test is considered passed for an ear if you accurately repeat the whispered sequence. If you use a hearing aid, you must wear it for both ears during the testing.

The Audiometric Exam Alternative

If you fail the Forced Whisper Test, you are not immediately disqualified. The medical examiner must then administer or request an Audiometric Exam. This is an objective, standardized test conducted using headphones and specific frequency tones to measure your hearing loss more precisely.

The Audiometric Standard for CDL Drivers

To pass the audiometric test, your average hearing loss in your better ear must not exceed 40 dB (decibels) at the key frequencies used for speech comprehension in a driving environment:

Frequencies Tested	Required Average Hearing Loss
500 Hz (Low Tone)	The average hearing loss across these three frequencies must be 40 dB or less.
1000 Hz (Mid Tone)
2000 Hz (High Tone)

Using Hearing Aids for the DOT Physical

The FMCSA permits the use of a hearing aid or corrective listening device to meet the standard. If you require a hearing aid to pass either the whisper test or the audiometric test, two rules apply:

Documentation: You must list the use of your hearing aid on your Medical Examination Report (MER) form.
Mandatory Use: You are legally required to wear the hearing aid at all times while operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV).

Q: Will I receive a shorter medical card if I wear a hearing aid?

A: No. Unlike conditions like high blood pressure or insulin-dependent diabetes, the use of a hearing aid to meet the minimum standard does not automatically restrict your card to a 1-year or 6-month certificate. If all other standards are met, you can still receive a 2-year certificate.

Tips to Pass the Hearing Test

If you are concerned about your hearing, you can take simple steps to ensure the best outcome during your DOT physical in Charlotte:

Clean Your Ears: Ensure you do not have any excessive earwax (cerumen) buildup, as this is a common, temporary cause of a failed whisper test.
Bring Your Aids: If you own hearing aids, bring them, wear them, and ensure the batteries are fresh.
Be Attentive: During the whisper test, close your eyes and focus fully on the words being spoken to ensure accurate repetition.

Need a DOT Physical by an Examiner Who Understands Hearing Aid Rules?

Get certified by an FMCSA-Certified Medical Examiner experienced in administering the whisper and audiometric tests.

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