If you drive for a living, you already know how strict DOT health requirements can be. What you may not know is that undiagnosed sleep apnea could affect your certification - and your safety on the road.
At uNITE Sleep Centers, we provide DOT-approved home and in-lab sleep testing that fits your schedule and gets you back to work fast. Here's what drivers need to know.
Why Sleep Apnea Matters for CDL Holders
Sleep apnea causes repeated breathing interruptions during sleep, often without the person even realizing it. This leads to extreme fatigue, poor focus, and slower reaction times - all serious risks when you're operating a commercial vehicle.
DOT examiners are trained to look for warning signs, especially in drivers who:
• Have a BMI over 35
• Snore loudly or stop breathing while sleeping (as reported by a partner)
• Have high blood pressure or Type 2 diabetes
• Admit to daytime sleepiness or poor rest
If a medical examiner suspects sleep apnea, they may refer you for testing before allowing recertification.
How DOT-Approved Testing Works
At uNITE, we offer both in-lab and at-home testing using the WatchPAT device - which is DOT-approved and easy to use.
You'll either:
• Schedule an overnight sleep study at one of our clinics
• Or pick up a WatchPAT test kit, complete the study at home, then return the device
No long delays. No hospital stays. Just fast, clear answers reviewed by board-certified sleep physicians.
What Happens Next
Once your test is complete:
• A sleep doctor scores and interprets your results
• We send a full report directly to your DOT examiner or referring provider
• If diagnosed, your provider will guide you on next steps like CPAP therapy
Our goal is to get you tested quickly so you can get recertified without unnecessary hold-ups.