If you work in the transportation industry, you probably already know you must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination to maintain your commercial driver’s license (CDL).
But if you’re a first-time CDL applicant, or it’s just been a while since your last examination, you may wonder what the process entails. Don’t worry! Let’s look closer at DOT physical requirements and what you can expect during your exam.
DOT Physical
A DOT (Department of Transportation) physical is required for individuals driving commercial motor vehicles to ensure they are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to do so. This includes, but is not limited to, drivers who operate vehicles that fall under the DOT’s jurisdiction and meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.
The DOT physical is a health examination that must be conducted every two years. However, if a driver has certain health conditions that need more frequent monitoring, the medical examiner may issue a valid certificate for less than two years.
Preparing for DOT Physicals
Before going for your DOT physical, ensure you are prepared and have all the necessary items ready.
Preparing can expedite the process and avoid potential delays in getting your medical certification. Here are the items and documents you should bring to your DOT physical:
- Valid Driver’s License or Photo ID: This could be a State-issued Driver’s License or Commercial Driver’s License.
- Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: If you require corrective lenses for vision, remember to bring your glasses or contacts.
- Hearing Aid: If you use a hearing aid, bring it along, as there will be a hearing test.
- List of Medications: If you’re currently on any medications, bring a list that includes the doses and doctors’ information.
- Medical Records: If your exam is being carried out by a new provider or if you see specialists for certain conditions, bring relevant medical records.
What to Expect During DOT Physicals?
Here is what you can expect during your DOT physical examination.
Vision and Hearing Tests
Your eyesight is crucial as a commercial driver. During the DOT physical, your doctor will test your vision to ensure you have at least 20/40 vision in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses.
Similarly, a hearing test will be conducted to ensure you can hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away in at least one ear.
Blood Pressure/Pulse Rate
Checking your blood pressure and pulse rate is an integral part of the DOT physical. These measurements help assess your cardiovascular health and detect any underlying conditions that might interfere with your ability to drive safely.
Urinalysis
A urinalysis test is part of the DOT physical. It checks for glucose levels, which can indicate conditions like diabetes. Urine tests can also screen for several drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, and phencyclidine (PCP).
If the test results are positive for drugs, you will need to provide a medical explanation for the results and may require an additional evaluation.
Physical Examination
The physical exam covers various aspects of your overall health. The examiner will evaluate several areas, including your general appearance, eyes, ears, mouth, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, vascular system, and limbs.
Any issues that could potentially affect your driving ability, such as impaired limb function or neurological disorders, will be addressed.
Mental and Behavioral Health Evaluation
A mental and behavioral health evaluation is also part of the DOT physical. The examiner will assess your mental health to ensure there are no issues, such as depression or anxiety, that could affect your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
Medical Examination Report (MER) Form, MCSA-5875
After the examination, the DOT physical provider will complete the Medical Examination Report (MER) Form, MCSA-5875. This form details your medical history, examination results, and the provider’s decision on your medical certification.
DOT Physical Near Me in Grand Junction, Colorado
If you’re a commercial driver in need of a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical, WorkPartners Occupational Health in Grand Junction, Colorado, has you covered. We specialize in providing comprehensive and efficient health examinations required by the DOT to ensure you’re physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to operate commercial motor vehicles.
Our dedicated providers are highly trained medical professionals who understand the requirements and regulations of the DOT. They work diligently to deliver a seamless and thorough examination process, ensuring you meet all the necessary health standards.
In addition to DOT physicals, we also offer workers’ compensation, drug & alcohol testing, pre-employment physicals, physical therapy, chiropractic services, and preventive health services.
For more information or to schedule your consultation with one of our providers, call us today at (970) 241-5585 or use our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
