Federal law requires drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) to receive regular physical examinations. The official name for these exams is “Department of Transportation Medical Examinations,” but it’s often shortened to “DOT physicals.” All DOTs are completed by a FMCSA certified medical provider. All of our Expedian Urgent Care providers are FMCSA certified.
A DOT exam will include an evaluation of an employee’s vision, hearing, blood pressure/pulse rate, and overall physical and mental health. If drivers take any medications, they’ll need to bring a complete list to the exam, including the doses and doctors’ information. Any drivers that require corrective vision or hearing need to bring their eyeglasses, contacts, or hearing aids. If any drivers suffer from any other medical conditions, they may be required to bring additional information’s.
Those who complete and meet the requirements of a DOT physical receive a DOT medical card or certificate valid to 24 months.
Step 1: Schedule Exam
We accept walk-ins! You can also call your local office to schedule an appointment.
Step 2: Get Your Physical
Your DOT exam will include a health history review, a thorough physical exam, and a urine test for Commercial Driver Fitness Determination.
Step 3: Medical Exam Report
Results will be reported electronically to the NRCME when the exam is completed and certified drivers will receive a copy of the Medical Examiners Certificate.
During your appointment for a DOT physical, the examiner assesses your physical and mental health to ensure no medical conditions will interfere with your ability to drive and operate a vehicle safely. The doctor performs a series of tests to check your blood pressure, vision, hearing, digestive, and mental health. You might also undergo urinalysis for diabetes and drug testing.
A DOT physical can take between 30 minutes and one hour to complete. Drivers who have existing medical conditions are urged to bring the appropriate related documents and items with them to the appointment.
Drivers are required to disclose all known health conditions with their doctors at the time of the DOT exam. Failing to disclose certain health conditions can result in disqualification for a DOT medical card and legal fines, in some cases.
