Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals are a requirement for people who operate commercial vehicles. These physicals ensure that no unsafe person is operating a commercial vehicle. Below is information to help you determine if you need a DOT physical and where to get one.
A Brief Guide to DOT Physicals
Before getting a DOT physical, it is important to make sure that you need one. If you meet the criteria, below you will be required to get a DOT physical every two years. If you pass the DOT physical, you will receive a medical certificate as confirmation. Like your commercial driver’s license, you will need to keep this certificate on your person when operating a commercial vehicle. According to MyPhysiciansNow.com, the criteria for requiring a DOT physical are as follows:
- You are paid to operate a motor vehicle that holds nine to 15 passengers; you drive the vehicle more than 75 miles from where you report to work; and/or you operate this vehicle for interstate commerce purposes.
- You operate a motor vehicle with a gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight, gross vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight of at least 10,001 pounds; you operate this vehicle for interstate commerce purposes.
- You transport hazardous materials in certain quantities.
Once you have established that you need a DOT physical, it is helpful to know what will be included in the examination. While the healthcare provider will review a variety of health items, taking into account any previous conditions or disabilities. He will also perform a number of tests during the physical to determine if you can safely operate a commercial vehicle. MyPhysiciansNow.com lists the following Items as part of the DOT physical:
- Pulse and blood pressure check
- Vision test
- General observance of physical appearance
- Examination of eyes, throat, mouth, and ears
- Heart and lungs function through listening to both
- Spinal deformities check
- Neurological examination
- Abdomen check for abnormalities
- Hernia check
“What is that feeling when you’re driving away from people, and they recede on the plain till you see their specks dispersing? ‒‒ it’s the too-huge world vaulting us, and it’s good-bye. But we lean forward to the next crazy venture beneath the skies.”
– Jack Kerouac, On the Road
How exhilarating to live a life on the road! The rolling hills, the cotton candy sunsets, the wind that blows through your hair and whispers: this is freedom!
For commercial truck drivers, though, a life on the road takes a lot of training, dedication, and commitment. For instance, did you know that commercial truck drivers are required to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical every 2 years to keep their license?
FastMed Urgent Care knows that it can be difficult for commercial truck drivers to make appointments and stick to them, especially while they are on the road. That is why FastMed offers DOT physicals every day of the year with no appointment required.
What Can You Expect from Your DOT Physical?
The Department of Transportation requires all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers to pass a DOT physical before obtaining or renewing their commercial driver’s license. The point of the DOT physical is to determine if the driver has any physical or mental issues that could hinder them from safely operating a CMV.
During a DOT physical, you will most likely be evaluated on the following:
- Vision and hearing
- Blood pressure and pulse
- Blood sugar
- Drug and alcohol levels
- Medical history
Who can perform a DOT physical?
DOT physicals should be performed by an FMCSA certified medical examiner. To be certified, a medical examiner should be recognized by the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners and should complete routine training every 5 years.
If you need a DOT physical, FastMed is trained and certified in FMCSA standards and offers exams as low as $85! Check out this brochure to learn more!
Get Your DOT Physical with FastMed Urgent Care
Lastly, it is important to find a licensed healthcare provider to perform your DOT physical. Call FastMed Urgent Care today for your DOT physical. We have locations across Arizona, North Carolina and Texas, open seven days per week, including nights and weekends. No appointment necessary.
The content presented on this page is not intended to diagnose health problems or take the place of professional medical care.
About FastMed
FastMed is a North Carolina-based integrated healthcare company based in Durham, NC. It operates more than 50 locations in 34 counties providing urgent care and occupational health as well as primary care at select locations. FastMed accepts most insurance plans and is one of a few private urgent care centers also accredited by The Joint Commission. Learn more at fastmed.com.