Veteran Seeking DOT Disqualifications.

Hello everybody, I've been looking for specific DOT disqualifications regarding Anxiety/Panic Disorder.

I've been out of the army for 6 years with 3 deployments under my belt and finally feel like I can actually go back into the world. I am 80% disabled for Asthma (10%) and 70% (Anxiety). Although I've always been told that my disability from the army will have no effect on my actions in the Civilian World regarding employment.

I am prescribed a drug called Clonazepam for my Anxiety. In all honesty, I only take 1 or 2 of these pills a year lol. I do have "panic" attacks, but there nearly never anything that would prevent me from doing a job, and the ones that do usually happen when I'm ripped from sleep. (the very few times I actually take my prescribed medication haha).

So, all my cards on the table there. Honesty is always the best policy =P I'd rather know my chances of a career up front, rather then getting excited over something I would not be allowed to do.

Also, thank you to whoever reads and responds to this.

While digging deeply into these forums, I did find a list of medications that disqualify and the one I have is not on it, so that's possibly a good thing =P

https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/21cfr/cfr/1308/1308_11.htm

For anybody else who finds this and is interested in knowing if any kind of prescribed medication will prevent you from qualifying for the DOT.

Welcome to the Trucking Truth site, Dennis!

One thing you should be aware of is that any company can add to a list of what they deem as a prohibitive prescription, or over the counter substance at their discretion. So best to check with directly with any perspective company you're eyeing.

What are your anxiety triggers? I'm asking because a PTSD trigger for me can be unexpected loud noises, low flying aircraft, certain smells, etc. Not each time for these, but sometimes these can trigger me unexpectedly.

I don't know about your prescription but your VA disabilities are not a disqualifier. I am 100% and have not had any issue during the hiring process.

Normally you should not have a problem. Zoloft and Proza taken for anxiety and depression will not disqualify you. I'm not sure what your type of medication is however.

You will be asked if you have been treated for anxiety/ depression on your DOT medical form. There is a place to make your comments about your condition. Also list your medications including dosage, frequency and date of onset.

Also you may be asked for a Physicians statement that you can safely operate a commercial vehicle and be prepared to be issued a 1 year certificate instead of the standard 2 year.

Thank you for fighting for our country and keeping us free. Best of luck.

One thing you should be aware of is that any company can add to a list of what they deem as a prohibitive prescription, or over the counter substance at their discretion.

PackRat's remark is worthy of particular notice. People often think if they can get a medical card and pass the D.O.T. physical, they are good to go. I've seen a lot of people sent home from trucking orientations due to their anxiety prescriptions. These companies can and do set their own standards and limits on what they deem acceptable.

This industry is very safety sensitive, and bears extreme liability due to the risks involved. Anything an attorney can get his hands on and twist around as evidence that will negatively influence a jury is fair game. Some of these companies have been burned badly by artful attorneys. They end up just saying no to certain prescriptions because of that.

You'll need to have honest discussions with recruiters. Some will say no, others will give you a shot. Just start out casting a wide net, then you can know how to narrow it down to pursue your available options.

Yes, it is true that companies can set their standards higher than the DOT mandates. I have known many drivers who are out there with anxiety disorders so it is possible. Like Old School said cast a wide net but I am confident you will find a place that will accept you. Remember defeat is not an option.

Just a side note here. I remember seeing a fellow sent home from TMC because he was prescribed Xanax. He was a veteran of Desert Storm. He was a newly licensed CDL holder, and visibly distraught. He thought his efforts at obtaining his CDL were wasted. I visited with him in private, and assured him all was not lost. We got online together filled out a few applications and then got in a conversation with a recruiter from Schneider. Within a couple of hours he had a bus ticket to orientation at Schneider.

Never let a small roadblock deter your trucking pursuits. For responsible willing candidates there's usually a way to get in a truck. Persistence and tenacity are highly valued traits in this business. Sometimes you need them in the job hunting process, and sometimes you'll need them on the road. Keep knocking on that door. Someone will be glad you came along.

Oh wow, I really appreciate all the replies and amazing information. I didn't even think about individual company policies haha.

I've read a lot of the threads here and found so much information =P I'm not actually interested in doing OTR or Regional routes. My goals are much smaller and closer to home, like a garbage truck, or cement truck, or.. some other kind of truck that doesn't involve me driving across the country lol. I've spent 100% of my time with my wife and kids for 6 whole years. None of us can accept the life of a real man =P

I applied to a company who prides itself on being veteran friendly. But, I'm treated for anxiety partially due to military service and was disqualified according to that company's standard. Or their contracted nurse practitioners standard anyway. Yep, it sucks. I was hoping to get their scholarship and employment after CDL school but it didn't work. Companies can set their own standards. that was about a year ago, so I'm going to apply again. I heard they changed physical providers.