DOT Physical

DOT Physical

A DOT physical exam is a health examination required by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for individuals who want to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). The purpose of the exam is to ensure that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to safely operate a CMV.

A DOT physical exam consists of:

1. Medical History Review

  • Health Conditions: Any history of health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or neurological disorders.
  • Medications: A review of any current prescription or over-the-counter medications.
  • Surgeries: A review of any past surgeries or hospitalizations.
  • Substance Use: Discussion about drug and alcohol use, if applicable.

2. Vital Signs

  • Blood Pressure: Measured to ensure it's within a safe range for driving.
  • Heart Rate: Checked for abnormalities.
  • Respiratory Rate: Assessed for normal breathing patterns.

3. Vision Test

  • Acuity: Must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses.
  • Peripheral Vision: Field of vision must be at least 70 degrees in both eyes.
  • Color Vision: Ability to distinguish traffic signal colors.

4. Hearing Test

  • Whisper Test: The driver must be able to hear a forced whisper from at least 5 feet away, with or without a hearing aid.

5. Urinalysis

  • This test checks for signs of diabetes or kidney issues. It typically looks for sugar, protein, blood, or other abnormalities in the urine.

6. Physical Examination

  • Heart and Lungs: The healthcare provider listens for any abnormal heart sounds or lung issues.
  • Abdomen: Checked for masses, hernias, or other abnormalities.
  • Neurological Exam: Assesses reflexes, balance, and motor coordination.
  • Musculoskeletal System: Checks for any physical limitations that could affect the ability to drive, like strength, range of motion, or flexibility issues.
  • Skin: Observes for any skin abnormalities that could indicate an underlying condition.

7. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Screening

  • We may ask questions to evaluate mental and emotional fitness for driving, including any history of depression, anxiety, or substance abuse.

Certification Outcomes:

  • Certification Issued: If the driver meets the requirements, they receive a Medical Examiner's Certificate (DOT card), usually valid for up to 24 months.
  • Limited Certification: Sometimes, certifications are issued for less than 24 months if the driver has a condition that requires closer monitoring (e.g., high blood pressure).
  • Disqualification: If the driver does not meet certain health standards, they may be temporarily or permanently disqualified from driving a CMV.


What to bring to your DOT physical exam appointment:

1. Medical History Information

  • Medical Records: If you have a pre-existing condition (like diabetes or heart disease), bring relevant medical records, including treatment plans and recent test results.
  • List of Medications: A detailed list of all prescription and over-the-counter medications you take, including the dosages and the names of the prescribing doctors.
  • Surgical History: Documentation of any surgeries you've had, including dates and outcomes if applicable.

2. Identification

  • Valid Driver’s License: A state-issued driver’s license or another form of government-issued ID is usually required to verify your identity.

3. Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses

  • If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them with you, as you will be required to pass a vision test to ensure you meet the standards for visual acuity.

4. Hearing Aids

  • If you use hearing aids, bring them along, as you will need to pass a hearing test during the exam.

5. Medical Devices (CPAP, Insulin Pump, etc.)

  • If you use any medical devices like a CPAP machine for sleep apnea or an insulin pump for diabetes, you should bring documentation about their use and settings, as well as recent compliance reports (e.g., printouts from your CPAP machine showing regular use).

6. Specialized Medical Documents

  • Cardiologist Report: If you have a history of heart disease or have had a cardiovascular procedure, you may need to bring a letter from your cardiologist stating that you're fit to drive.
  • Diabetes Treatment Plan: If you have diabetes, bring a letter from your doctor detailing how it’s managed, recent blood sugar test results, and proof of regular monitoring (e.g., hemoglobin A1C test results).
  • Sleep Apnea Documentation: If you have sleep apnea, bring documentation from your doctor showing compliance with treatment (e.g., CPAP reports).
  • Recent Stress Test: If applicable, bring the results of any recent stress tests or echocardiograms, especially if you have a heart condition.

7. Medical Examiner’s Certificate (if renewing)

  • If you are renewing your DOT medical card, bring a copy of your current Medical Examiner’s Certificate, especially if it is still valid.

8. Completed Health History Form

  • Some clinics may provide you with a Health History Form to fill out before the exam. If this is available, complete it and bring it with you.

Having all of these items ready will ensure that the DOT physical exam goes smoothly and can help avoid delays or the need for additional appointments.


DOT Physical Exam Fee: $100