Comprehensive Guide to the DOT Physical Vision Test in Bronx

Our certified certified Examiner discusses the vision test during the DOT Physical exam in Bronx

Commercial drivers must undergo a comprehensive physical examination to get their driver's license. This test is necessary to ensure the safety of the driver and the public. Drivers have to meet various health standards to operate vehicles safely. Vision test is one of them.

Dr. Ataul Chowdhury, a certified DOT medical examiner, will educate you on the vision test requirements. This blog will help you know what to expect from these tests during DOT physical exam at our Bronx exam center.

What Is The DOT Physical Vision Test?

The DOT Physical test includes an examination of the visual acuity of commercial drivers. This test proves that the driver is eligible to drive heavy and large commercial vehicles safely. Various aspects of eyesight are assessed in this exam. Usually, distance vision, color perception, and side vision are evaluated to ensure that their eyesight is clear. 

Why Is A Vision Test Necessary?

Driving with eyesight issues increases the risk of accidents on the road. You might not be able to see obstacles because of your poor eyesight. Also, you may need help to read signs correctly or respond quickly to traffic signal changes. These problems can lead to severe accidents. For this reason, you have to prove your visual capabilities through the test. This assessment can save your life and the lives of the public on the road.

What Are The Vision Requirements?

You must meet these requirements to pass the DOT physical vision test:

Visual Acuity

This test measures the clarity of your eyesight. We check your eyesight both with and without visual aids. You have to prove the visual ability of your right and left eyes separately. Your minimum vision should be 20/40. This requirement is the same for glasses and contact lenses, too.

Peripheral Vision

This test measures your side vision. Your minimum peripheral sight should be 70 degrees. Your eyes will be checked individually for this assessment. It will prove your ability to identify potential roadside hazards that could appear out of nowhere.

Color Vision

This assessment is done to check whether you can differentiate between different colors. You can prove your ability to identify traffic lights, signals, and road signs.

Monocular Vision

This examination is done if you can see with only one eye. However, you have to get an exemption. You have to prove that your active eye meets the standard requirement. 

What To Expect During Eye Exam?

Physical Eye Checkup

We begin your test by asking questions about your eye health. We understand your ability to see in the dark and your eyesight issues. We also ask you about the treatment process of your ongoing treatment. After that, we conduct physical eye assessments to look for potential issues that can affect your vision in the future.

Vision Acuity Test

We use the Snellen eye chart to measure your eyesight. We keep the chart 10 feet away from you. You have to read the lines until you see them. When taking this test, you have to cover one eye. We may also use the Titmus screening instrument instead of the chart. You have to get 20/40 in all these three tests-  

• Distant visual acuity in the right eye
• Distant visual acuity in the left eye
• Distant binocular vision acuity

Peripheral Vision Assessment

We conduct your peripheral test after measuring eyesight clarity. We use the Titmus device or the confrontation method. In this method, you must look at your Medical Examiner's nose. The examiner will hold up fingers in various areas of your side vision. You have to tell the number of fingers. You will pass the test if your peripheral sight is 70 degrees in both eyes.

Color Vision Evaluation

We provide you plates with colored dots arranged in patterns. These patterns are usually numbers and symbols. You have to identify them. You can quickly identify them if your color vision is normal. This test is done to see if you can see the red, amber, and green colors used in traffic lights.

Tips To Prepare For The Vision Test

• Go for regular eye checkups to monitor your vision. 
• Update your corrective lenses if you wear them.
• Ensure good quality sleep before your exam day.
• Avoid long screen time or reading in low light before the test.
• Get treatment for eyesight issues before your test to ensure you meet the requirements.
• Use sunglasses to protect your eyes from dust and bright light.
• Drink enough water to prevent dry eyes.
• Avoid drinking for a few days before your exam.
• Keep your diabetes and blood pressure under control. Your eyesight can get damaged if these conditions remain uncontrolled for a long time.

Schedule Your DOT Physical Exam Today

DOT CDL Physical is a reliable DOT physical exam partner in the Bronx, NY. We offer comprehensive DOT Physical examinations to make your experience smooth and stress-free. We have a certified medical examiner to conduct your test. Our physician, Dr. Ataul Chowdhury, conducts the exams, maintaining FMCSA standards. We prioritize effective communication with you to understand your unique needs and ensure your results are accurate. Our services are available at 1888 Westchester Avenue and 372 E 204th Street. You can schedule your consultation online or visit our clinic for walk-ins. Book your appointment today.

FAQs

What Happens If You Don't Pass The Test?

Failing the vision test does not mean you will not get a license for driving commercial vehicles. We suggest you further test or refer specialists if your eyesight problem can be solved. You can retake the test if your condition improves. You can also apply for vision exemption if you can see only with one eye. 

Can I Pass the DOT Physical Eye Exam with Monocular Vision?

No. But you can apply for Federal Vision Exemption if you pass other physical exams. Also, your good eye should meet the standard requirements if you want to apply for an exemption. Your vision should be 20/40, and your peripheral sight should be 70 degrees.

Should I Get an Eye Test Before My DOT Physical?

Getting an eye test before a DOT physical is not mandatory. But you can go for a regular checkup to examine your eye health. It will help you to identify changes in your eyesight. You can also replace your glasses or contact lenses if your eye power changes. 

Can I wear contact lenses to do the DOT physical vision test?

You can wear contact lenses during your test if you wear them daily. You have to meet the requirements with or without a vision aid. You should inform us before your exam that you need them to see clearly. We will mention it on your medical certificate.

Do I need a vision test every time I renew my CDL?

You have to pass the DOT physical exam to renew your CDL. For this reason, you also have to go through the vision test.

What if I have a temporary vision issue, like an eye infection?

You should reschedule your DOT physical if you have temporary vision loss. This temporary condition can affect your test results. You may not meet the requirements and become disqualified. That's why you should take the necessary treatment. After your eyesight condition improves, you should go for your vision test. 

Can laser eye surgery help me pass the vision test?

Eye surgery like LASIK can help you meet the eyesight requirements. However, you have to show documentation from your eye surgeon. It should confirm that your procedure was successful and your eyesight is stable. 

What should I bring to the vision test?

You should bring your medical documents and current prescription. You also have to get glasses or contact lenses if you need them to see clearly.