Your Trusted Partner for Commercial Driver Physicals
What is a DOT Physical?
A DOT (Department of Transportation) physical is a mandatory medical exam for individuals seeking to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). It ensures drivers are fit to handle the demands of the job, including long hours and potential stress, while maintaining public safety.
This exam is required for drivers transporting more than 15 passengers, carrying hazardous materials, operating vehicles with a combined weight of over 10,000 pounds, or earning income by driving vehicles that accommodate eight or more people.
Drivers may qualify for exemptions for certain conditions, such as diabetes, vision or hearing impairments, and physical disabilities, provided they demonstrate proper management of these issues. If you pass the exam, you’ll receive a certificate to provide to your employer.
What Does a DOT Physical Include?
A DOT physical evaluates overall health to ensure safe driving. A licensed medical examiner will perform the exam, which includes:
- Vision
- Hearing
- Blood Pressure and Pulse
- Urinalysis
- Physical Examination
Additional testing, such as a sleep apnea evaluation, may be required if symptoms are present.
Preparing for a DOT Physical
To streamline your appointment, bring the following:
- A completed driver’s medical history form.
- Details about medications, hearing aids, glasses, or contact lenses.
- Recent health records (e.g., Hgb A1C for diabetes (Can also be measured on-site), 30+ days of CPAP data for sleep apnea, or clearance letters for heart or neurological conditions).
- Any necessary documentation for exemptions (e.g., prosthesis or disability-related restrictions).
Avoid coffee, tobacco, and energy drinks for 24 hours before the test, as they can raise blood pressure.
Certification
Results are electronically submitted to the NRCME, and you’ll receive your medical exam card onsite or via email.
DOT Disqualifying Medical Conditions
Certain physical or mental health conditions can disqualify drivers from operating commercial vehicles. However, drivers may be eligible for exemptions from the FMCSA if their doctor confirms they are safe to drive.
Physical Conditions
The following conditions may disqualify a driver unless specific exemptions or evaluations are obtained:
- Loss of a limb unless a skill performance evaluation certificate is issued.
- Disorders or impairments of the hand or fingers that hinder grasping.
- Limb defects or impairments that affect the safe operation of a vehicle.
- Insulin-controlled diabetes without an FMCSA exemption.
- Cardiovascular diseases or congestive heart failure.
- Respiratory conditions that could cause loss of consciousness.
- Severe high blood pressure affecting safe driving.
- Musculoskeletal disorders impairing safe vehicle operation.
- Epilepsy or conditions causing loss of consciousness.
- Poor visual acuity (worse than 20/40 in either eye) or peripheral vision under 70°.
- Red/green colorblindness.
- Hearing loss exceeding 40 dB at five feet without correction.
Mental Health Conditions
Drivers must meet DOT mental health standards, including restrictions on certain medications. The following mental conditions can disqualify a driver:
- Major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation, psychosis, or prior suicide attempts.
- Psychotic disorders.
- Antisocial personality disorder.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Bipolar disorder.
Disqualifying Medications
Drivers are prohibited from using Schedule I controlled substances, including marijuana, even with a prescription. Disqualification also applies to drivers taking medications without a valid prescription.
Drivers may also be disqualified for using habit-forming or narcotic drugs, such as amphetamines or benzodiazepines, unless prescribed by a licensed physician. The doctor must confirm the medication does not impair the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Maintaining compliance with these medical and medication requirements ensures safety for both drivers and the public.
Why Choose Integral Med?
Integral Med simplifies the DOT physical process with professional, efficient service. Our team ensures your exam is conducted smoothly, providing results electronically to the NRCME and issuing your medical exam card promptly so you can get back on the road with confidence. Contact our friendly staff to schedule your appointment today.
