Department of Transportation Physical
A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is a medical examination required for commercial vehicle drivers to ensure they are physically and mentally fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely. This exam is mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and must be performed by a certified medical examiner.
​
Components of a DOT Physical:
​
-
Medical History Review:
-
A comprehensive review of the driver's medical history, including any medications, surgeries, or chronic conditions.
-
-
Vision Test:
-
Ensures the driver has at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without correction and a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in the horizontal meridian in each eye.
-
The ability to distinguish colors on traffic signals is also assessed.
-
-
Hearing Test:
-
Evaluates the ability to hear a forced whisper from at least 5 feet away, with or without a hearing aid.
-
-
Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate:
-
Checks for hypertension and overall cardiovascular health.
-
-
Urinalysis:
-
Screens for underlying medical conditions such as diabetes by checking for glucose, protein, blood, and other substances.
-
-
Physical Examination:
-
A thorough examination of the body, including assessment of the heart, lungs, abdomen, neurological function, and musculoskeletal system.
-
Checks for any conditions that might impair the ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
-
​
Certification:
-
After the examination, if the driver meets all the necessary health standards, they are issued a Medical Examiner's Certificate, which is typically valid for up to 24 months. However, some conditions may require more frequent monitoring.
​
Importance:
-
The DOT physical is crucial for ensuring the safety of both the driver and the public by confirming that drivers are medically qualified to perform their duties without posing a risk to themselves or others on the road.
​
​
Cost: $75