What is a DOT physical?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a DOT physical is a medical examination that helps make sure you are medically safe to operate a certified motor vehicle. Because certified motor vehicles generally are larger and more difficult to operate than passenger cars, their professional drivers are held to higher standards to keep everyone on the road as safe as possible.

What does a DOT physical consist of?

According to the FMCSA, a DOT physical consists of a medical interview, a full physical examination, vital signs measurement (like blood pressure and pulse), a urine screen, a vision test, and a hearing test. Drug and alcohol testing is not part of a general DOT exam. However, professional drivers are generally subject to random screenings of this nature, and they may be included depending on a person’s specific situation.

Where can I get a DOT physical near me?

If you’ve ever been in the position of frantically searching for “DOT physicals near me,” you know that it can be difficult to find the information you need when you need it. At Solv, we offer a convenient DOT exam locator tool to help you find the closest high-quality provider.

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About DOT Physicals

If you make a living driving a motor vehicle, you’re likely familiar with the concept of a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. This type of medical examination is a requirement for professional drivers to maintain their licensure. However, finding a DOT physical provider can be challenging, especially when you’re pressed for time. At Solv, we’ve streamlined the DOT exam search process.

How Solv makes getting your DOT exam simple and convenient

When your DOT certification is expiring, it can be stressful. However, with Solv’s easy-to-use DOT exam locator tool, you can instantly book an appointment with a top-rated local DOT examination provider. This convenient and hassle-free search tool can help connect you with the specific evaluation you need to maintain your professional standing.

Partnering with Solv for DOT exam services

A DOT physical exam is a comprehensive review of your current state of health to make sure that you can safely operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). Professional DOT physicals can help keep you and other drivers on the road safe. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), everyone with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required to clear certain health standards to safely operate a CMV. This DOT physical, also known as a CDL physical or a CDL exam, must be performed by a specifically trained medical examiner.

During a DOT physical, specific aspects of your health will be evaluated to make sure that you can safely and successfully operate a motor vehicle. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), the DOT health evaluation includes:

A physical examination, including an assessment of your grasping power, cognitive status, and mobility. If you have an amputation, a DOT examiner will ensure that you have a prosthetic device that meets federal requirements.
A review of your medical history, including whether you have diabetes that requires insulin for control, heart problems, breathing problems, high blood pressure, epilepsy, rheumatic conditions, arthritis, orthopedic conditions that can interfere with your ability to drive, or psychiatric conditions.
A vision test, ensuring that you are within a specific, predetermined range for visual acuity, color detection, and peripheral vision—with or without corrective lenses.
A hearing test, ensuring that you are able to hear specific decibel levels at a certain range, with or without a hearing device.
A urine test, to check the functioning of your kidneys. Depending on your specific exam and history, your urine may also be checked for drugs.
A medical evaluation regarding alcohol use.

Once you receive your DOT certification, it is generally valid for 24 months unless a condition is identified on the exam that would require recertification sooner. According to the FMCSA, if you fail the exam because of a certain medical condition, you may be able to apply for an exemption. You may also be eligible for a second opinion.

DOT Exam FAQs

What is a DOT physical?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a DOT physical is a medical examination that helps make sure you are medically safe to operate a certified motor vehicle. Because certified motor vehicles generally are larger and more difficult to operate than passenger cars, their professional drivers are held to higher standards to keep everyone on the road as safe as possible.
What does a DOT physical consist of?
According to the FMCSA, a DOT physical consists of a medical interview, a full physical examination, vital signs measurement (like blood pressure and pulse), a urine screen, a vision test, and a hearing test. Drug and alcohol testing is not part of a general DOT exam. However, professional drivers are generally subject to random screenings of this nature, and they may be included depending on a person’s specific situation.
Where can I get a DOT physical near me?
If you’ve ever been in the position of frantically searching for “DOT physicals near me,” you know that it can be difficult to find the information you need when you need it. At Solv, we offer a convenient DOT exam locator tool to help you find the closest high-quality provider.
How long is a DOT physical good for?
According to the FMCSA, DOT physicals are typically valid for 24 months. However, if a condition has been identified on your last exam that requires an earlier re-examination time, you may need to be reassessed sooner. For example, according to the AAFP, people who take blood pressure medication must be recertified annually to maintain their standing with the DOT.
What can disqualify you from a DOT physical?
According to the FMCSA, the following conditions can disqualify you from a DOT physical: hearing loss, vision loss, epilepsy (seizure disorder), or insulin use. Some prescription medications may also be disqualifying, especially if they are sedating or habit-forming, according to the FMCSA.
What happens if you fail DOT physical?
If you fail a DOT physical because of a certain medical condition, you can apply for a medical waiver or an exemption, according to the FMCSA. This may be granted if you can prove that you can still operate a motor vehicle safely, despite the condition. You are also allowed to get a second opinion, according to the eCFR (Code of Federal Regulations).
How much does a DOT physical cost?
The range of prices for a DOT physical can vary. Sometimes, an employer will pay for the price of the test. Make sure to check with your medical examiner about the price so that you are as informed as possible.
Can you get a second opinion on a DOT physical?
Yes, you are entitled to one second opinion, according to the Code of Federal Regulations. To get a second opinion, you will need documentation from both of the DOT exam providers who have had a conflicting medical opinion.
Does a DOT physical check for drugs?
No, the typical DOT physical does not test for drugs. However, professional drivers are subject to random drug and alcohol testing, according to the FMCSA. Also, if your DOT physical is part of a pre-employment process, then your urine will likely be checked for drugs, according to the Code of Federal Regulations.
Does DOT physical test for alcohol?
No, the typical DOT physical does not test for alcohol. However, professional drivers are subject to random drug and alcohol testing, according to the FMCSA, and you may be subject to alcohol screening if you are starting your employment.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Rob Rohatsch, MD

Updated on Apr 25, 2024

Sources

Solv has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.