DOT PHYSICAL EXAM

What is a DOT Physical Exam?

If you’re a skilled bus or truck driver, you understand how demanding your work may be. You will undoubtedly be required to get a DOT or Department of Transportation physical test to safeguard your and the public’s safety.

The FMCSA requires commercial vehicle drivers to have a DOT physical test. This exam ensures that you can satisfy the physical demands of your employment. This includes the ability to withstand the health hazards associated with prolonged sitting.

Who Needs a DOT Physical?

A DOT physical is required if you:

• Drive a vehicle that can transport more than 15 passengers.
• Are compensated for driving a vehicle that can transport more than eight persons.
• Carry hazardous items in your vehicle that necessitates the use of a placard.
• Over 10,000 lbs gross combination weight rating, more than 10,000 lbs gross vehicle weight rating, over 10,000 lbs gross combination weight.

What Does a DOT Physical Consist of?

Your DOT medical exam will be performed by a healthcare physician who will ask you extensive questions about your medical history, including:

• If you’ve ever undergone surgery
• Any drugs you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter
• If you’ve ever experienced any health issues
• If you use cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, or illegal substances
• If you’ve previously failed a drug test
• If you’ve ever been addicted to an intoxicating substances
• Any current symptoms you’re experiencing.

You will have tests checking your:

• Vision Test.
• Hearing Test.
• Blood Pressure.
• Pulse Rate Check
• Urinalysis and Drug Test. To check for protein, sugar, specific gravity, and blood.
• Physical Examination
• Height
• Skin
• Back and spine
• General Appearance
• The nervous system, including your reflexes
• Ears
• Lungs and chest
• Abdomen
• Weight
• Mouth and throat
• Extremities and joints
• Gait. How you walk.
• Genital and urinary system (hernias)
• Blood pressure
• Circulatory system. Your arteries, veins, and lymphatic system.

If you have obstructive sleep apnea, a disorder where you stop breathing periodically during sleep, you may need a sleep apnea test. There are several symptoms associated with sleep apnea, including:

• Snoring excessively
• During sleep, you’re gasping for air.
• Morning dry mouth or aching throat
• Headaches in the morning
• Sleepiness during the day

What are the DOT Physical Exam Requirements?

All drivers and candidates should consider the following before taking the Department of Transportation physical examination:

• The drivers must see clearly or have a vision of 20/40, using corrective vision aids if necessary.
• In both eyes, the drivers should have a vision of 70 degrees or more.
• Drivers need to be able to hear a forced whisper within 5 feet, but they should not be wearing any hearing aids.
• Drivers are required to pass an audiometer assessment.
• The drivers ought not to have a history of hypertension or hypotension. Blood pressure should be between 140 and 90.

Those who complete the prerequisites and pass the exam are issued a 24-month DOT certificate. If you must take this test, keep the following in mind:

• To save time, fill out the Medical Examination Report before your appointment.
• Make a detailed note of all the drugs you are taking.
• Insurance does not cover this Medical Exam.

How Can You Prepare for a DOT Physical?

• Ensure your meds are up to date and that you take them regularly as directed.
• Have your eyes tested and your prescription adjusted if you wear contact lenses or glasses.
• Avoid binge drinking.
• Do not abuse drugs.
• Avoid salty snacks and other meals that raise blood pressure.
• Sugary sweets and other items that raise blood glucose levels should be avoided.
• If you smoke or use vape, you should think about quitting.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Exercise more frequently and eat a nutritious diet.

What Do You Need to Bring to DOP Physicals?

You need to bring the following:

• Provide your most recent test results if you have diabetes or a related disease.
• Your prescription glasses, contact lenses, or hearing assistive devices.
• A list of any prescription medications you are taking, including the dose
• A list containing the names and addresses of all of your physicians
• If you have diabetes, keep a written record of your blood sugar tests and your most current Hgb A1C.
• If you suffer from sleep apnea, a CPAP machine record demonstrating correct use for at least 90 days is required.
• If you have heart problems, you will need a letter from your cardiologist certifying that you are safe to drive and a DOT physical exam.
• If you’ve recently undergone cardiac testing, please provide the findings.
• If you’ve experienced a stroke, a brain tumor, a seizure problem, or a brain hemorrhage, you’ll need a letter from your neurologist.
• A letter and medical documents from your doctor if you take any sleep-inducing medications or restricted drugs.
• If you’ve suffered from the permanent use of an arm or leg, a note from your doctor detailing any job limitations is required.
• If you’re using the blood thinner Coumadin, you’ll need a letter from your doctor and a current blood level and clearance test.