Older Drivers And DOT Physicals

If you are an older driver like me, (70 years), do you have any problems passing the exam?

The company had me go in for my annual exam today because I was in the yard and had the time. My card, before today, was set to expire on March 7, 2023. I was happy to get it renewed for another year. Eye exam was great, no glasses needed at this time. Blood pressure was 140/85, which needs some work to get it lower. I gained 17 pounds in the past 11 months, so I need to get that number down also. Blood sugar numbers were really good. No protein showing up in the urine.

Anyone in my age range have a 2 year card? What concerns do you have about passing your next exam?

I’m 62 and have always gotten 2 yr cards with zero issues.

I got a two year card with the bad heart. Now, I'm only eligible for a one year card because of the anti-rejection meds I'll be on forever.

I’m 67 and have a 1 year card because I’m on BP meds and use a CPAP. BP is my primary concern for passing.

I’ve lost a lot of weight since being OTR. I don’t snack like I did when retired and quit drinking beer and bourbon. I’m actually more active now than I was.

I'm older than you Bruce. Because of my CPAP and blood pressure, I will always have a one year card. When I go in they look at all my meds and then look at the CPAP results for 90 days and are more concerned because I don't use the CPAP every night. In fact, I use it about 62% during the month.... It does not allow me to be rested and I'm more tired when I use it. But as long as it's over 60%, they really can't say anything. My vision requires glasses, but I see quite well with them. So my next physical is in May and I think with the 35 lbs dropped and my blood pressure coming down (in the 130s/70s range), I'm maybe off of a couple of my blood pressure medicines and not worried about passing my physical.

Laura

I'm 63 years old. Up until recently I've always held a 2 year card. Since I had that severe retinal detachment in my right eye, my vision has been terrible in that eye. I'm basically blind in my right eye. Covid also damaged my heart. Haha, I'm starting to sound like I belong in a nursing home.

So, now I'm taking medication. I've never been one to take medicine. I also have to use the new "alternate vision standard" to pass my physical. So... I've got a low dose B.P. medication and the alternate vision standard. Both of those only allow me to have a one year card.

It's really no big deal to me. I was always glad, or maybe a little proud, to hold a 2 year card. I'm so thrilled to be back in the game, I honestly could care less about the time limit until my next physical.

2 year card at the moment. 63, soon turning 64… feel fortunate to have good health this far into my life.

The greatest wealth is health. Keep it going Sir!

2 year card at the moment. 63, soon turning 64… feel fortunate to have good health this far into my life.