DOT Physical Exams
A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam is a federally mandated health evaluation required for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. The exam ensures that drivers are medically qualified to safely operate large vehicles on public roadways. These exams must be performed by a Certified Medical Examiner listed in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry.
What the Exam Includes
The DOT physical focuses on key areas of health that affect a driver’s ability to operate safely, including:
- Vision – Minimum 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without correction) and ability to distinguish colors.
- Hearing – Ability to perceive a forced whisper from 5 feet away (with or without a hearing aid).
- Blood Pressure & Pulse – Screening for hypertension and heart-related conditions.
- Urinalysis – Checks for underlying medical issues such as diabetes or kidney disorders.
- General Medical Assessment – Review of medical history, medications, and evaluation of overall physical health, including lungs, heart, abdomen, musculoskeletal system, and neurological function.
Certification
- Drivers who meet the standards typically receive a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card) valid for up to 24 months.
- In certain cases, certification may be issued for a shorter duration (e.g., 3–12 months) to monitor specific medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea.
- Failure to meet DOT standards may disqualify a driver until the medical condition is corrected or managed.
✅ Key Tip: Start preparing at least a week before your exam—
How to Pass a DOT Physical Exam
1. Bring the Right Documents
2. Take Care of Your Health in Advance
2. Take Care of Your Health in Advance
- A valid government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license).
- A complete list of current medications with dosages.
- Medical records or clearance letters if you have conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, heart disease, or past surgeries.
- Corrective glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids, if you use them.
2. Take Care of Your Health in Advance
2. Take Care of Your Health in Advance
2. Take Care of Your Health in Advance
- Manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and heart conditions
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and high-sodium foods before your exam.
- Take prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.
3. Follow Examiner’s Instructions
2. Take Care of Your Health in Advance
3. Follow Examiner’s Instructions
- Be honest about your health history. Trying to hide a condition can result in disqualification or shorter certification.
- Healthy drivers may receive a 2-year DOT card.
- If you have a condition under monitoring (like high blood pressure or diabetes), you may receive a shorter-term card (3–12 months) and need follow-up exams.
