National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) DOT Practice Exam

Which of the following conditions does require immediate disqualification of a driver?

1. Uncontrolled hypertension

2. A history of anxiety without treatment

3. A past history of benign seasonal allergies

4. A mild headache

The correct answer is: Uncontrolled hypertension

Uncontrolled hypertension requires immediate disqualification of a driver because it poses a significant risk not only to the driver but also to others on the road. Hypertension that is uncontrolled can lead to severe cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes, which can impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines specify that drivers with uncontrolled hypertension must be disqualified until the condition is managed effectively and is within a safe range. In contrast, conditions like a history of anxiety without treatment or benign seasonal allergies do not inherently impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely if they are managed properly. Mild headaches, while uncomfortable, also do not typically affect a driver’s capability to drive unless they are indicative of more serious underlying issues which are not specified in the context of the question. Therefore, the seriousness and potential consequences of uncontrolled hypertension make it the only condition in the list that mandates immediate disqualification.