A doctor talking to a patient in his office

What Happens in a DOT Physical?

For those looking to pursue a career as a commercial vehicle driver, it’s important to maintain health and safety standards in all aspects. A major example of this is completing a DOT (Department of Transportation) Physical. A DOT physical is a mandatory medical exam that ensures a driver is physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of driving safely. You must have a valid DOT physical in order to keep your commercial driver’s license valid and active. Let’s discuss the purpose of the physical and what you can expect during the process.

Why Do I Need to Complete a DOT Physical?

The Department of Transportation and FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) require this medical exam to ensure the safety of the driver and the public on the road. Ensuring commercial vehicle drivers meet specific standards can help prevent health-related accidents and incidents on the road.

How Long are DOT Physicals Valid?
These physicals are required for new drivers entering the industry, as well as current drivers, and must be renewed regularly, usually every two years unless you have a condition that needs to be monitored more frequently.

What’s the Benefit of APUs and EPUs?

A DOT physical is comprised of multiple areas that must be checked prior to sign-off. As with a standard health checkup, they will review your current medical history and current vitals, such as height, weight, and blood pressure. They will also conduct a physical examination of other various vital functions, such as respiratory health, hearing tests, vision tests, and in some cases, a sleep apnea test will be required. You can also expect during this exam to be observed or receive questions in regard to your emotional and mental well-being.

A Melton truck parked in front of a water tower

The full scope of your exam will depend on age, medical history, and underlying conditions; your examiner may require additional testing in some areas.

Where Do I Go for a Physical?

Per the FMCSA, a medical examiner who is licensed, certified, and/or registered in compliance with their state laws is capable of performing a physical examination. This can include a Doctor of Medicine, doctors in osteopathy, physician’s assistants, advanced practice nurses, and chiropractors.

If you are currently working with a doctor to manage a condition, they are often recommended to perform this exam, as they will already have much of the required documentation and knowledge on your personal history.

What If I Fail My DOT Physical?

It’s important to understand that while the exact conditions needed to pass the DOT physical vary depending on the person, you may still fail if you are not compliant. Some areas that are often seen to be out of compliance are the following:

  • Unmanaged high/low blood pressure
  • Unmanaged diabetes
  • Non-verifiable use of a CPAP machine for sleep apnea
  • Vision deterioration that falls below the 20/40 rule (with or without correction)

Should you fail a physical exam, you may be asked to take anywhere from 14 – 30 days to rectify the issue before reapplying for an exam. During this period, you will not be allowed to drive a commercial vehicle.

You are responsible for maintaining any medical directives given to you by a healthcare provider while you are a CDL holder. While DOT physicals are valid for up to two years, it’s still important to schedule regular checkups with your healthcare provider and be vigilant for any changes in your health. Staying on top of your health is one of your responsibilities as a truck driver, to keep yourself and other drivers on the road safe. Learn about the other requirements to become a truck driver here.

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