Medically reviewed by Dr. Alan M. Tebby, D.C., FMCSA Certified Medical Examiner | Last updated: January 25, 2026
TL;DR: DOT Physical Cataracts Glaucoma
DOT physical cataracts and glaucoma certification depends on visual acuity and visual field after treatment. Cataract surgery often improves vision to meet CDL standards. Glaucoma requires controlled intraocular pressure and preserved peripheral vision (70 degrees minimum). Bring ophthalmologist documentation confirming stable eye disease and that you meet visual acuity (20/40) and peripheral vision requirements.
At Charlotte DOT Exam Center, our FMCSA-certified examiners have extensive experience evaluating this condition.
📞 Call 704-544-3494 | 💰 $70 flat rate | 🚶 Walk-ins welcome
Understanding Cataracts and Glaucoma and DOT Physical Certification
Cataracts and glaucoma are common eye conditions, especially with aging. Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens, while glaucoma damages the optic nerve, often due to elevated eye pressure. Both conditions can affect vision but are often treatable.
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful surgeries performed, and many drivers achieve excellent vision after surgery. Glaucoma requires ongoing management to preserve vision, particularly peripheral vision which is important for driving.
At Charlotte DOT Exam Center, we evaluate drivers with cataracts and glaucoma regularly. The key is whether your treated vision meets FMCSA standards—20/40 acuity and 70 degrees peripheral vision.
Commercial drivers traveling Charlotte’s major corridors—I-85, I-77, I-485, and US-74—can receive expert evaluation at our convenient Pineville-Matthews Road location. We work with drivers from throughout the Charlotte metropolitan area, including Mecklenburg, Union, Cabarrus, Gaston, and York (SC) counties.
What Is Cataracts and Glaucoma?
Cataracts and Glaucoma is a medical condition that affects many Americans, including commercial drivers. The condition has varying degrees of severity, and management approaches differ based on individual circumstances. For commercial drivers, understanding how this condition is evaluated during DOT physicals is essential for maintaining certification.
How Common Is Cataracts and Glaucoma Among Commercial Drivers?
Many commercial drivers successfully manage cataracts and glaucoma while maintaining their CDL certification. The key factors are proper treatment, regular monitoring, and appropriate documentation. With the right approach, most drivers with this condition can continue their careers safely.
FMCSA Standards for Cataracts and Glaucoma
The FMCSA medical regulations are found in 49 CFR 391.41, which establishes the physical qualification standards for commercial motor vehicle drivers. The FMCSA Medical Advisory Criteria provides additional guidance for medical examiners evaluating specific conditions.
According to the AAO Cataracts Information, cataracts and glaucoma affects many Americans, including commercial drivers. The Glaucoma Research Foundation provides further information about this condition and its management.
The FMCSA evaluates cataracts and glaucoma based on whether the condition could impair your ability to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle. Key factors the medical examiner considers include:
- Current symptom control: Are your symptoms well-managed with your current treatment?
- Medication effects: Do your medications cause side effects that could impair driving?
- Disease stability: Has your condition been stable, or is it progressing?
- Functional capacity: Can you perform all required commercial driving tasks safely?
- Safety risk: Could your condition cause sudden incapacitation while driving?
Key FMCSA Regulations
The primary regulation governing medical certification is 49 CFR 391.41, which states that drivers must have “no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of a condition that is likely to cause loss of consciousness or any other loss of ability to control a CMV safely.” This functional standard allows for individualized evaluation rather than automatic disqualification based on diagnosis alone.
Common Questions About Cataracts and Glaucoma and CDL Certification
Commercial drivers with cataracts and glaucoma often have similar questions about how their condition affects DOT certification. The following Q&A addresses the most common concerns we hear at Charlotte DOT Exam Center.
Can I get a CDL if I have cataracts?
Yes, if your vision meets FMCSA standards (20/40 with correction). Many drivers with cataracts can be certified. Cataract surgery often significantly improves vision—many drivers see better after surgery than before.
Can I get a CDL if I have glaucoma?
Yes, if your visual acuity is 20/40 or better and peripheral vision is at least 70 degrees in each eye. Glaucoma must be controlled and stable with treatment.
How long after cataract surgery can I be certified?
Typically 4-6 weeks after cataract surgery, once vision is stable and you have been cleared by your ophthalmologist. Some drivers recover faster.
Does glaucoma affect peripheral vision for DOT purposes?
Yes, glaucoma can reduce peripheral vision over time. If peripheral vision loss exceeds the 70-degree requirement, you may not meet FMCSA standards without a vision exemption.
What medications for glaucoma are compatible with commercial driving?
All common glaucoma eye drops (Timolol, Latanoprost, Travatan, Lumigan, Alphagan, Cosopt, etc.) are compatible with commercial driving.
Do I need visual field testing if I have glaucoma?
Visual field testing documents your peripheral vision and is strongly recommended if you have glaucoma. Bring recent visual field test results to your DOT physical.
What if I have both cataracts and glaucoma?
Each condition is evaluated separately. You must meet vision standards for both visual acuity and peripheral vision. Cataract surgery can improve acuity while glaucoma management preserves peripheral vision.
Can I drive commercially while waiting for cataract surgery?
If your current vision meets 20/40 standards with glasses or contacts, you can be certified. If vision is worse than 20/40, you may need to wait for surgery and recovery.
Cataracts and Glaucoma Medications and Commercial Driving Compatibility
Understanding which medications are compatible with commercial driving helps you communicate effectively with your medical examiner and prepare for your DOT physical. Most medications used to treat cataracts and glaucoma are compatible with commercial driving when taken as prescribed.
The FMCSA evaluates medications based on whether they could impair your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. Factors considered include sedation, dizziness, delayed reaction time, and impaired judgment. Your stability on a medication—meaning you’ve been taking it long enough to know how it affects you—also matters.
💊 Medication Compatibility Chart
| Medication Category | Common Examples | CDL Compatible? |
|---|---|---|
| Beta-Blocker Eye Drops | Timolol (Timoptic), Betoptic | ✅ Yes |
| Prostaglandin Analog Eye Drops | Latanoprost (Xalatan), Travatan, Lumigan (bimatoprost) | ✅ Yes |
| Alpha Agonist Eye Drops | Brimonidine (Alphagan) | ✅ Yes |
| Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor Eye Drops | Dorzolamide (Trusopt), Brinzolamide (Azopt) | ✅ Yes |
| Combination Eye Drops | Combigan, Cosopt, Simbrinza | ✅ Yes |
| Rho Kinase Inhibitors | Rhopressa, Rocklatan | ✅ Yes |
| Oral Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors | Diamox (acetazolamide) | ⚠️ Evaluate for side effects |
✅ = Compatible | ⚠️ = Requires evaluation | ❌ = Not compatible while driving
Always bring a complete list of your medications—including dosages and frequencies—to your DOT physical. If you have questions about a specific medication’s compatibility, discuss it with your treating physician before your exam. Some medications may be compatible if taken at certain times (such as bedtime only) or at certain doses.
Tips for Medication Management
- Keep an updated medication list with you at all times
- Bring prescription bottles or pharmacy printouts to your DOT physical
- If starting a new medication, wait until you know how it affects you before driving commercially
- Discuss CDL requirements with your prescribing physician—they may have compatible alternatives
- Never take someone else’s prescription medications
Certification Duration Based on Cataracts and Glaucoma Severity
Your DOT medical certificate duration depends on your condition’s severity, treatment effectiveness, and documentation provided. The table below outlines typical certification outcomes based on condition severity:
📊 Certification Duration by Severity
| Severity Level | Characteristics | Typical Certificate | Documentation Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cataracts (vision meets standard) | 20/40 or better with correction | Standard certification | Ophthalmologist letter helpful |
| Post-cataract surgery | Vision stable after surgery | Standard certification | Ophthalmologist clearance |
| Glaucoma (controlled) | 20/40 acuity, 70° peripheral, IOP controlled | Standard certification | Visual field + IOP documentation |
| Glaucoma (peripheral vision loss) | <70° peripheral vision in either eye | Exemption may be required | Federal Vision Exemption application |
| Advanced glaucoma | Significant visual field loss | Case-by-case | Extensive ophthalmologist evaluation |
These guidelines help you understand what to expect, but your medical examiner evaluates your complete clinical picture. Bringing comprehensive documentation often supports longer certification periods. Conversely, incomplete documentation may result in shorter certification periods or requests for additional information.
Factors That Support Longer Certification
- Documented stability over time (6-12+ months)
- Comprehensive specialist clearance letters
- Good medication compliance
- No recent hospitalizations or acute episodes
- Favorable test results showing good control
Factors That May Shorten Certification
- Recent diagnosis or treatment changes
- History of poor control or frequent episodes
- Missing or incomplete documentation
- Borderline test results
- Progressive condition with uncertain trajectory
What to Bring: Documentation Checklist for Cataracts and Glaucoma
Proper documentation streamlines your DOT physical and supports a favorable certification decision. Gathering these items before your appointment saves time and demonstrates that your condition is well-managed.
Required Documentation
- ✅ Current glasses or contact lenses
- ✅ Ophthalmologist documentation of diagnosis and treatment
Recommended Documentation
- 📋 Recent visual field test results (essential for glaucoma)
- 📋 Ophthalmologist letter confirming disease stability
- 📋 Post-operative clearance if recent eye surgery
- 📋 Intraocular pressure readings (for glaucoma)
🚨 After Hospitalization – Additional Requirements
- 🏥 Surgical documentation from eye surgery
- 🏥 Post-operative ophthalmologist clearance
- 🏥 Updated visual acuity measurements
- 🏥 Visual field results if glaucoma patient
Pro Tip: Organize your documents in a folder before your appointment. Having everything readily available makes your DOT physical more efficient and demonstrates that you take your health management seriously. Consider keeping copies of important documents in your truck for future renewals or roadside inspections.
Getting Specialist Letters
If you need a clearance letter from your specialist (pulmonologist, cardiologist, psychiatrist, etc.), request it at least 2 weeks before your DOT physical. The letter should include:
- Your diagnosis and current treatment
- Duration of treatment and stability
- Statement that condition is well-controlled
- Opinion on fitness for commercial driving
- Any restrictions or monitoring requirements
- Provider’s credentials and contact information
Waiting Periods After Medical Events
Certain events related to cataracts and glaucoma may require waiting periods before DOT certification. These waiting periods allow time to demonstrate medical stability and ensure safe commercial driving.
⏳ Waiting Periods After Medical Events
| Event | Typical Waiting Period | Documentation Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Cataract surgery | 4-6 weeks healing | Ophthalmologist clearance + stable vision |
| Glaucoma surgery (trabeculectomy, etc.) | Varies by procedure | Ophthalmologist clearance + stable IOP + visual field |
| New glaucoma diagnosis | IOP controlled with medication | Documentation of treatment and stability |
| Glaucoma medication change | IOP stable on new regimen | Follow-up documentation |
These are typical guidelines. Your medical examiner evaluates your complete situation.
These waiting periods are guidelines based on typical situations. Your medical examiner evaluates your complete clinical picture and may adjust requirements based on your specific circumstances, recovery progress, and documentation quality.
What to Do During Waiting Periods
- Continue all prescribed treatments and follow-up appointments
- Document your stability with regular medical visits
- Avoid any activities that could cause setbacks
- Gather documentation for your eventual DOT physical
- Stay in communication with your treating physicians
Information for Charlotte-Area Commercial Drivers
Charlotte commercial drivers face unique considerations when managing cataracts and glaucoma while maintaining DOT certification. The Charlotte metropolitan area is one of the busiest freight hubs in the Southeast, with I-85 and I-77 serving as major corridors for commercial traffic.
Local Healthcare Resources
Charlotte has excellent medical facilities including Atrium Health (formerly Carolinas HealthCare System), Novant Health, and numerous specialty practices. Key resources for commercial drivers include:
- Atrium Health: Comprehensive specialty care throughout the Charlotte region
- Novant Health: Multiple locations with specialist availability
- Regional specialty practices: Many specialists understand commercial driver needs
- Urgent care facilities: Available for acute issues that need prompt attention
Climate Considerations
Charlotte’s humid subtropical climate—with hot, humid summers and mild winters—may affect certain medical conditions. Drivers should be aware of how weather and seasonal changes might affect their condition and plan accordingly.
Regional Driving Demands
Charlotte’s position as a major logistics hub means commercial drivers often face demanding schedules. The intersection of I-85, I-77, and I-485 creates significant commercial traffic, and drivers frequently travel to ports in Charleston, SC and Wilmington, NC, as well as to Atlanta, the Research Triangle, and points north.
Ensure your cataracts and glaucoma treatment plan accommodates the realities of commercial driving, including:
- Adequate medication supplies for extended trips
- Strategies for managing your condition on the road
- Access to medical care if needed while traveling
- Proper rest and sleep despite irregular schedules
Service Area
Charlotte DOT Exam Center serves commercial drivers from throughout the region, including Mecklenburg County, Union County, Cabarrus County, Gaston County, Lincoln County, Iredell County, and York County (SC). Our convenient Pineville-Matthews Road location is easily accessible from I-485 and I-77.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cataracts and Glaucoma and DOT Physicals
The following FAQs provide quick answers to common questions about cataracts and glaucoma and DOT certification. For more detailed information, see the relevant sections above.
Can I get a CDL with cataracts?
Yes, if vision meets 20/40 standard with correction. Cataract surgery often improves vision to meet requirements.
Can I get a CDL with glaucoma?
Yes, if visual acuity is 20/40+, peripheral vision is 70+ degrees, and glaucoma is controlled with treatment.
How long after cataract surgery can I drive?
Typically 4-6 weeks once vision is stable and ophthalmologist provides clearance.
Does glaucoma affect peripheral vision?
Yes, glaucoma can cause peripheral vision loss. You must maintain at least 70 degrees.
Are glaucoma eye drops compatible with driving?
Yes, glaucoma eye drops are fully compatible with commercial driving.
Do I need visual field testing?
Strongly recommended if you have glaucoma—bring recent visual field test results.
Schedule Your DOT Physical at Charlotte DOT Exam Center
Charlotte DOT Exam Center provides comprehensive DOT physical examinations for commercial drivers with cataracts and glaucoma throughout the Charlotte metropolitan area. Our FMCSA-certified medical examiners—Dr. Alan M. Tebby, D.C. and Dr. Lemuel Byrd—have extensive experience with this condition and understand the certification requirements.
📍 Charlotte DOT Exam Center
8415 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite 102
Charlotte, NC 28226
Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Conveniently located near the intersection of I-485 and Pineville-Matthews Road (NC-51), we serve commercial drivers from South Charlotte, Ballantyne, Pineville, Matthews, Mint Hill, Fort Mill (SC), Indian Trail, Waxhaw, Monroe, Concord, Gastonia, Rock Hill (SC), and surrounding communities.
Questions before your appointment? Call us at 704-544-3494 to discuss what documentation to bring for your specific situation. We’re happy to answer questions about cataracts and glaucoma and DOT certification requirements.
