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How Hypertension Can Impact Drivers


According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 26% of truck drivers are affected by hypertension. While drivers with high blood pressure may still qualify to drive, they are required to take measures to lower their blood pressure and must undergo DOT physicals more frequently to keep their certification.

Question:

I recently sent my driver for a DOT physical, and the physician issued a three-month certification because of the driver’s high blood pressure (hypertension). Is it possible for my driver to remain qualified by visiting the doctor every three months and obtaining a new medical certificate each time?

Answer:

NO
The three-month certification for hypertension can only be issued once. Under current regulations, hypertension is divided into four stages depending on the driver’s systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure readings.

Stages of Hypertension

  • Stage 0 (Systolic 139 or less and/or diastolic 89 or less): The driver may be certified for up to two years.
  • Stage 1 (Systolic 140-159 and/or diastolic 90-99): Drivers in this stage may be certified for one year. At recertification, if their blood pressure is 140/90 or lower, they can be certified for another year. If, at recertification, their blood pressure is above 140/90 but below 160/100, a one-time, three-month certificate will be issued.blood pressure check
  • Stage 2 (Systolic 160-179 and/or diastolic 100-109): Drivers in this stage must receive treatment and can receive a one-time, three-month certificate. After lowering their blood pressure to 140/90 or below, they may be certified for one year, with annual recertification required thereafter.
  • Stage 3 (Systolic 180 or higher and/or diastolic 110 or higher): Drivers in this stage cannot be certified until their blood pressure is reduced to 140/90 or below. Once qualified, recertification is required every six months.
Note: After a diagnosis of hypertension, recertification for drivers in Stage 1 and Stage 2 must occur annually, while drivers in Stage 3 require recertification every six months. According to 49 CFR 391.43, drivers with hypertension or those taking hypertension medication must be recertified more frequently.
Drivers with blood pressure readings of 180/110 or higher are disqualified but may reapply once their blood pressure is controlled. Disqualification in this case is not permanent.

What can you do to help control hypertension?

  • Eat a healthy diet. Consider following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Increase potassium intake, reduce saturated and trans fats, and limit sodium (salt) in your meals.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Even a small weight loss, such as five pounds, can help lower blood pressure if you are overweight.
  • Be more physically active. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. Even in healthy individuals, alcohol can raise blood pressure. Drink in moderation: no more than one drink per day for women and up to two for men.
  • Avoid smoking. Tobacco damages blood vessels and accelerates artery hardening. If you smoke, seek your doctor’s support to quit.
  • Manage stress levels. Practice healthy coping strategies such as deep breathing and muscle relaxation, and ensure you get enough sleep.

CVSA Brake Safety Week Scheduled for August 23-29

CVSA Brake Safety Week will take place August 23-29 as part of Brake Safety Awareness Month.
During this event, roadside inspectors will check brake systems and parts, with a special focus on brake drums and rotors. Results from the inspections will be published later in the year. The week also gives motor carriers a chance to teach drivers and maintenance staff about brake safety.

Idealease/NPTC safety seminars are in full swing!

Idealease and the National Private Truck Council NPTC hosted 18 safety seminars in 2025. We are getting ready for the next sessions in the Fall of 2026. The one-day seminars will focus on basic safety and compliance, regulation changes and CSA. The seminars will be provided to all Idealease customers, potential customers and NPTC members at no charge. The seminar provides valuable information applicable for both novice and experienced transportation professionals.
Upcoming Fall seminars confirmed:
  • 9/15/2026 - DePere, WI
  • 9/17/2026 - Southfield, MI
  • 9/22/2026 - Midway, KY
  • 9/24/2026 - Chattanooga, TN
  • 9/29/2026 - Glendale Heights, IL
  • 10/8/2026 - Oxnard, CA
  • 10/20/2026 - Nashville, TN
  • 10/22/2026 - Atlanta, GA
  • 11/10/2026 - Linthicum Heights, MD
*The Idealease Safety Bulletin is provided for Idealease locations and their customers and is not to be construed as a complete or exhaustive source of compliance or safety information. The Idealease Safety Bulletin is advisory in nature and does not warrant, guarantee, or otherwise certify compliance with laws, regulations, requirements, or guidelines of any local, state, or Federal agency and/or governing body, or industry standards.



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