Can a 59 yr old w/ diabetes, rods in my back get licensed & hired

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by cowebb1, Jan 26, 2023.

  1. cowebb1

    cowebb1 Bobtail Member

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    Hi, I am a 59 year old with 3 years of driving a tractor trailer with a dump trailer. I drove for my brother in 1998-99. I was licensed for everything at that time except a train and a plane. I let it go when I went back to work for the state. I have type 2 diabetes and rods in my back from broken back. Will a good paying company train and then upon completion, hire me? Also, if they will hire me, what is a realistic pay for me to start? Any honest advice will be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
     
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  3. Lazer

    Lazer Road Train Member

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    Insulin dependent, no.
     
  4. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Thousands of truckers have Type 2 diabetes, so that's no problem.
    As for rods in your back, if you can pass a DOT physical, then you're ok. Drivers with disabilities can get waivers if needed.
    Many drivers have limbs missing, such as a leg or hand, etc. I met one driver that had two artificial legs and he was doing just fine.
     
  5. Espressolane

    Espressolane Road Train Member

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    The more important question is whether or not you can get a medical card. You’re going to need letters of fitness from you physicians, the DOT medical examiner is going to want them. Needs to show that you have the diabetes under control and the appliances in your back will not be a hindrance. It will be a bit of a process to get the medical certification. Lots of forms to fill out, submit and wait if exemptions are required. It can be done, just know that it may take time.
     
    Last edited: Jan 26, 2023
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  6. lual

    lual Road Train Member

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    @cowebb1 --

    Start pay?

    That depends....on at least several factors.

    One of which is where you are located. Some areas pay more than others, simply becuz of the cost of living.

    Also--the type of freight you would be pulling.

    Sooooo....there's no "one size fits all" answer to pay.

    What city/state is closest to your location?

    What type(s) of freight are of most interest to you?

    Will you be getting any endorsements? The more CDL endorsements you have--the better your potential pay.

    As suggested above--if you can score a DOT med card, you can probably later go on to get a driving job.

    It's pretty much a driver's market out there....at least, for now.

    So the above is probably worth your time to check into it.

    --Lual
     
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  7. wis bang

    wis bang Road Train Member

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    Type II is doable but you need to be 1000% in sync with a medical specialist. That won't help making you the highest earner in any company.
     
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  8. REO6205

    REO6205 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    I'd say that most outfits won't hire him. Nothing against him personally but there are enough healthy drivers out there that taking a chance on one with diabetes and back problems just doesn't make sense. Too much potential for extra time off or WC problems.
    The companies won't tell him this of course but they'll find some other reason not to hire him and round-file his application..
    I'm sorry if that sounds harsh but sometimes this is a harsh business.
     
    Last edited: Jan 28, 2023
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  9. bryan21384

    bryan21384 Road Train Member

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    I'd say it's possible. It all depends on the doctor. I've met a driver near Cleveland, OH that had an artificial arm, it looked robotic. I've seen guys with an artificial leg drive. If you go to your physical and you can do all the movements, they'll pass you. Lots of drivers have diabetes but so long as youndont need insulin and your blood pressure is under control, you have a chance. Honestly, if I were you, I'd take a DOT physical out of pocket. See if that doctor will clear you. If that one does, that'll tell you what you need to know.
     
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