high blood pressure

Are you a commercial driver with concerns about meeting the CDL blood pressure requirements for your next DOT physical? Look no further – this guide has got you covered! Navigating CDL blood pressure requirements can feel overwhelming, but understanding the guidelines and taking the necessary steps can help ensure your continued eligibility.

Whether you’re a seasoned trucker or just starting out, it’s crucial to understand the importance of maintaining a healthy blood pressure level. In this article, we will walk you through the requirements set by regulatory authorities and provide you with valuable information on how to manage your blood pressure effectively. With our expert advice and practical tips, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to stay on the road and obtain or renew your CDL with confidence.

Don’t let blood pressure be a roadblock to your career – read on to discover everything you need to know!

What Is Blood Pressure?

Good question. Blood pressure is the pressure exerted by your blood on the sides of the vessels as it pumps through your body. It is measured in a relatively simple way. An inflatable cuff is wrapped around your arm and your blood pressure is measured using a sphygmomanometer in millimeters of mercury.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition in which the force of blood flowing through the arteries is too high. It’s also called "the silent killer," because many people don’t realize that they have it until it causes serious problems. You likely already know that high blood pressure can be a cause of serious health risks among other issues but CDL blood pressure requirements may also affect your livelihood as a truck driver.

A blood pressure reading reported is in two numbers such as 120 over 80. The higher number is the systolic pressure, the reading when your heart beats. The lower number is the diastolic pressure, the reading when your heart is at rest.

A reading lower than 120/80 is considered normal, according to the American Heart Association. A reading between 120/80 and 129/80 is considered elevated. High blood pressure is when your systolic reading is over 130 and your diastolic pressure is over 80. There are three categories: stage 1, stage 2 and hypertensive crisis.

Can You Get a CDL with High Blood Pressure?

Taking care of your blood pressure and your general overall health should always be a priority regardless of your career. However, if you are a truck driver or otherwise need a commercial driver’s license, you should know that your livelihood may be at risk if your blood pressure exceeds defined limits.

As you already know, you must comply with DOT blood pressure limits and pass a physical to receive your CDL (there are some exceptions to this, but it is commonly required by employers even when it isn’t by the law). Your medical certificate must also be maintained.

The DOT has identified high blood pressure as a significant factor in driver health. High blood pressure is a risk factor for major health problems including heart attack and stroke. 

If you have been diagnosed with hypertension, you will be subject to some additional rules to receive or maintain your CDL. These could interrupt your career or even halt it.

According to the FMCSA, a driver with a reading under 140/90 can receive medical certification every two years. A driver with a pressure reading between 140/90 and 159/99 must be certified every year. Anyone with a result between 160/100 and 179/109 may receive a one-time, three-month certification. If he or she can achieve a normal reading within those three months, a one-year certification can be granted.

The situation is even more dire for someone with a reading over 180/110. In this case, the driver is disqualified from receiving a CDL. After achieving normal blood pressure, he or she must be certified every six months.

cdl blood pressure chart

In other words, there is a direct link between high blood pressure and CDL license medical certification. The consequences could put your career on hold (not to mention the risk to your life).

How to Meet the CDL Blood Pressure Requirements for a DOT physical

The best thing you can do for your blood pressure is to see a medical professional. If your pressure is elevated or high, your physician will provide appropriate guidance on how to best manage it. Do not attempt to diagnose hypertension on your own or treat it without proper medical supervision.

Nonetheless, there are several things you can do to lower your blood pressure, many of which will likely be suggested by your doctor. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should consider the following:

  • Lose Weight: Blood pressure typically correlates to weight. If you lose some extra pounds, you will start to see your numbers going down.
  • Exercise Regularly: In addition to helping you lose weight, exercise strengthens your cardiovascular system. The Mayo Clinic recommends at least 150 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.
  • Eat Right: A healthy diet is good for your waistline and your heart. Eat lots of fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Try to skip saturated fats, cholesterol and sodium.
  • Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Everyone likes to relax, but these substances can dramatically increase your blood pressure. Quit smoking and moderate your alcohol intake.
  • Reduce Stress: Being a trucker can be stressful at times. However, this can increase blood pressure. Practice some stress-management techniques.
  • Limit Caffeine: This one may hurt a lot of truck drivers. You should cut back on caffeine intake. Look for other ways to stay awake while driving.

Understanding the Importance of Blood Pressure for CDL Drivers

High blood pressure is linked to a variety of health issues. These include heart disease, cardiac arrest, and other heart problems. It can also cause aneurysms, strokes, brain damage, and other mental impairment. High blood pressure is even linked to kidney disease. In other words, your life is literally at risk by failing to control your blood pressure.

This condition may also lead to a lower quality of life. Slightly elevated blood pressure does not have any direct symptoms. However, it can cause health problems, as mentioned above which may cause you to feel tired or uncomfortable, especially when driving. Some related conditions can also harm your mental acuity, increasing the danger when you are on the road.

You should not attempt to self-diagnose or self-manage high blood pressure. Instead, it is vital to speak with a medical professional and follow his or her advice. Measuring blood pressure is a regular part of preventative medicine.

Common Medications for High Blood Pressure and Their Impact on CDL Drivers

In some cases, CDL drivers may require medication to control hypertension and meet CDL blood pressure requirements. It is important to be aware of the common medications prescribed and their potential impact on CDL drivers. While certain medications may have side effects that can affect your driving abilities, others may have minimal impact. Always consult with your healthcare provider and inform them about your CDL requirements to ensure you are prescribed medications that are safe for driving. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and monitor any potential side effects that could affect your ability to operate a commercial vehicle.

Resources and Support for Truck Drivers with High Blood Pressure

If you're a CDL driver with high blood pressure, you're not alone. There are resources and support available to help you manage your condition effectively while continuing your career as a commercial driver. Here are some valuable resources and support networks you can turn to:

1. Healthcare providers: Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice, regular check-ups, and blood pressure monitoring.

2. CDL-specific medical professionals: Seek out medical professionals who are familiar with CDL blood pressure requirements and understand the unique challenges faced by commercial drivers.

3. Health and wellness programs: Many companies and organizations offer health and wellness programs specifically designed for CDL drivers. These programs can provide valuable resources, education, and support for managing blood pressure and overall health.

4. Online communities and forums: Connect with other CDL drivers facing similar challenges through online communities and forums. These platforms can provide a sense of camaraderie and a space to share experiences and advice.

You don’t have to completely renovate your lifestyle, but with a few adjustments, you can lower your blood pressure, meet the CDL blood pressure requirements set forth by the DOT, and be a healthier, more successful trucker.

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Authored By:

Kate Williams

CDLjobs.com has been a leader in the trucking industry since 1999, connecting truck drivers with companies hiring drivers. Kate Williams is the company EVP and CFO with over 30 years experience in finance.