Does taking certain medications disqualify me from being a truck driver?

DOT physical doctors couldn't care less what a private physician has to say.
@Moose1958 to the rescue! We depend on Moose for clarity on this subject.

 

Have you asked your doctor if they will write something along the lines of “Does not affect patient’s ability to drive.”?

Even if your doctor writes that and another doctor passes your physical most if not all companies want your long form physical. Once they see your medications they could decide not to hire you. Most wouldn’t be dumb enough to say you’re on the wrong medication they would say something along the lines of we found a more qualified candidate.

Whatever cdl school costs $5,000 $10,000 is what you’re gambling that someone will hire you. Good luck.

 

The DOT prohibits any substance that is used to control seizures. They also prohibit the substances in the below list. In every other case they leave that decision to a medical examiner, this ME is trained in what the DOT wants and will make the judgment then. There is a HUGE amount of hyperbole and in some cases out and out falsehoods. In all situations, if you are taking a medication get a letter from your doc stating you need the med. Then go discuss it with the Medical Examiner. This is the best guidance I can offer you at this time. I need to edit something about the below list. The DOT allows pain killers on this list if you have a valid RX and the ME says OK.

 

I just want to point out something about that seizure comment. I am retired now. I also have Epilepsy and use both Levetiracetam and in extream cases Versed for control. In fact, I had to take Versed this morning because I had a seizure. Versed is not a banned substance. In fact, Versed is also used in most Hospitals as a sedative before some tests etc. Versed however, for me is banned.

 

If pass a DOT Physical and drug test and have a cdl, you're hirable.

 

It’s my opinion you’re gambling whatever it costs for school. Once you’re experienced a small company would hire you but getting experienced is difficult. Here’s an example of the worse case scenario.

Truck Driver in Capitol Crash Had History of Mental Illness, Violence

 

Thank you for your trust. Just remember I am not in good physical shape and sometimes it may be days or weeks before I see the tag. I would recommend you also tag @brian991219 because he is also a compliance specialist and may be able to help.

 

Even if someone tells you "you'll pass your DOT medical exam" don't start school until you have found a company you really want to work for. Pick a few companies to research and don't make a final decision of which one to work for until after you have talked to current working drivers doing the type of work you want to be hired for.

You will not have enough time during CDL school to adequately research trucking companies. Also, once you finish CDL school the clock is ticking on starting to pay any school loan.
1. Research
2. Decide on a company
3. Complete CDL school
4. Start work.