A DOT physical is a mandatory medical examination that commercial drivers must pass to obtain or renew their commercial driver’s license (CDL). A DOT physical is a comprehensive medical examination required by the Department of Transportation for all commercial motor vehicle drivers. This mandatory health screening ensures that drivers can safely operate large trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles on public roads.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires this examination to protect both drivers and the general public. Understanding what happens during your physical for DOT can help you prepare and avoid delays in getting your medical card for CDL.
In this blog, you will learn about the following:
- Medical examination requirements – DOT physicals assess vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health status.
- Documentation needed – Bring current medications, medical history, and any required forms from your employer.
- Certification validity – Medical certificates are typically valid for up to two years, depending on your health status.
What is a DOT Physical Examination?
The DOT physical is a standardized medical examination that evaluates whether commercial drivers meet federal health standards. Only certified medical examiners listed on the National Registry can perform these examinations.
During the exam, the medical examiner assesses your physical and mental fitness to drive commercial vehicles safely. The examination covers multiple body systems and health conditions that could affect your ability to drive.
Who Needs a DOT Physical?
You need a DOT physical if you operate a commercial motor vehicle that:
- Weighs more than 10,000 pounds
- Carries hazardous materials requiring placards
- Transports 16 or more passengers, including the driver
- Transports 9-15 passengers for compensation
Most commercial drivers, including truck drivers, bus drivers, and delivery drivers, must complete this examination every two years. Some drivers with certain medical conditions may need more frequent examinations.
What to Expect During Your DOT Physical
Here is what you can expect from a DOT physical.
Medical History Review
Your examiner will review your complete medical history and current medications. Be honest about any health conditions, as providing false information can result in disqualification.
Bring a list of all medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. If you take prescription medications like metformin (Glucophage) for diabetes or lisinopril (Prinivil) for high blood pressure, your examiner needs this information.
Vision and Hearing Tests
The DOT physical includes specific vision and hearing requirements:
Vision requirements:
- 20/40 vision or better in each eye with or without correction.
- At least 70-degree field of vision in each eye.
- Ability to distinguish red, green, and amber colors.
Hearing requirements:
- Hear a forced whisper at five feet or better.
- Pass an audiometric test if needed.
Physical Examination Components
The medical examiner will check multiple body systems, such as:
- Cardiovascular system – Blood pressure, heart rate, and heart sounds
- Respiratory system – Lung function and breathing capacity
- Musculoskeletal system – Range of motion, strength, and mobility
- Neurological system – Reflexes, coordination, and mental alertness
- Urinalysis – Screening for diabetes, kidney problems, and other conditions
Blood Pressure Requirements
Blood pressure is a critical component of the DOT physical. The requirements are:
- Stage 1 hypertension (140-159/90-99) – One-year certification
- Stage 2 hypertension (160-179/100-109) – Must be reduced and rechecked within three months
- Stage 3 hypertension (180/110 or higher) – Disqualifying until controlled
Medical Conditions That May Affect Your DOT Physical
Several health conditions require special attention during your DOT physical:
Diabetes
Drivers with diabetes can qualify for commercial driving with proper management. You may need additional documentation from your treating physician showing good glucose control.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a significant concern for commercial drivers. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you must demonstrate compliance with treatment, typically continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.
Heart Conditions
Certain heart conditions may disqualify you from commercial driving. However, many drivers with controlled heart conditions can still qualify with appropriate medical documentation.
Vision and Hearing Impairments
Drivers who do not meet standard vision or hearing requirements may still qualify through the Vision Exemption Program or Hearing Exemption Program.
How to Prepare for Your DOT Physical
Proper preparation can help ensure a smooth examination process:
Before your appointment:
- Gather all medical records and current medications.
- Bring glasses or contact lenses if you wear them.
- Get adequate sleep the night before.
- Avoid caffeine before the exam to help keep blood pressure stable.
What to bring:
- Photo identification
- List of current medications
- Medical records for any ongoing conditions
- Previous DOT medical certificate if renewing
What Happens After Your DOT Physical?
If you pass the examination, you will receive a Medical Examiner’s Certificate, commonly called a medical card for CDL. This certificate shows you meet federal medical standards for commercial driving.
The certificate is typically valid for up to two years. However, drivers with certain medical conditions may receive shorter certification periods requiring more frequent examinations.
Common Reasons for DOT Physical Disqualification
Understanding the potential disqualifying conditions is important. These include the following:
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Insulin-dependent diabetes without exemption
- Certain heart conditions
- Severe sleep apnea without treatment compliance
- Vision or hearing that does not meet standards
- Substance abuse history without proper documentation of recovery
Many disqualifying conditions can be addressed with proper medical treatment and documentation.
DOT Physical in Grand Junction, CO
The DOT physical is an essential requirement for maintaining your commercial driving career. Understanding what to expect during the examination helps you prepare properly and avoid unnecessary delays.
At WorkPartners Occupational Health, our certified medical examiners specialize in DOT physicals and understand the unique health needs of commercial drivers. We provide comprehensive examinations in a professional, supportive environment that puts drivers at ease.
Our experienced team works with drivers who have medical conditions, helping them understand requirements and maintain their driving careers safely.
Contact WorkPartners Occupational Health today at (970) 241-5585 or fill out our appointment request form to schedule your DOT physical and keep your commercial driving career on track.
