What do they do in a DOT physical?

Your medical examiner will first talk through your medical history with you and any ongoing treatment you have. They’ll then take your height and weight so they can calculate your BMI and check your blood pressure, vision, and hearing.

They’ll do a general assessment of your physical health, look at your skin, check your reflexes, and examine you for hernias.

You’ll also submit a urine sample that will be analyzed to calculate your blood sugar levels and a few other health markers.

In most cases, the DOT exam will end there, and you’ll get your medical certificate. However, if your medical examiner found something they believe warrants further testing, or if the requirements of the physical demand it, you may be referred on for another test before you can get your certificate.

How much does a DOT physical cost?

The DOT physical price varies depending on where you get it, and if you are fronting the cost, or if the company you work for will cover part or all of the cost. Generally, the physical costs $85 – $150.

Can I get a free DOT physical?

Many companies pay for their drivers’ DOT physicals, so if you’re about to move to a new company, ask them if they will cover the costs of your medical exam.

Do DOT physicals include a drug test?

The DOT physical exam does not specifically test for drugs. The urine sample you give as a part of your DOT physical checks your blood sugar levels. Some employers will require you to submit a urine sample for a DOT drug test, but the DOT physical itself will not look for legal or illegal substances.

What will make you fail a DOT physical?

If you have extremely high blood pressure, high blood sugar, an untreated hernia, or uncorrected vision or hearing, you may fail the DOT physical.

What happens if you fail the DOT physical?

Failing your medical exam is never good news, but it’s also rarely the end of your driving career. In most cases, failing your physical simply means you need to make some lifestyle changes and improve your health so you can safely get back on the open road.

Remember that the DOT physical isn’t trying to catch you out – it looks at your overall well-being and considers if you may have a major health episode in the near future that would jeopardize the safety of yourself and others. If you fail a DOT physical, work with your doctor to get your health back on track so you can get back on the road.

Where can I find the DOT physical forms?

You need to fill out a medical examination report before or when you start your physical. Many people find that having time to think through their answers makes the process of getting their DOT medical exam less stressful, so you can find the form and fill it out ahead of time here.

You can also find an example of the medical examiner’s handbook here.

Generally, the DOT physical is straightforward and nothing to worry about. The medical examiner merely needs to ensure you are fit and healthy enough to operate a large commercial vehicle. We have plenty of information for each medical condition and how they affect your ability to pass the DOT physical, so if you have any concerns, make sure you read those guides to put your mind at ease.