What is a DOT physical?
Drivers must be fit and healthy. That’s why the Department of Transportation requires regular physical examinations to ensure drivers don’t endanger themselves or others when they get behind the wheel.
Who needs to undergo the physical?
If you drive a motor vehicle of 9 up to 15 passengers, regularly travel for more than 75 miles on those trips and drive for interstate commerce reasons, you need to pass a DOT physical and have your DOT medical certificate along with you wherever you go on those trips.
Who will perform the physical?
The physical can only be carried out by a FMCSA-certified medical examiner, says the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
What preparations do I need make?
- Keep taking any prescribed medications
- Opt for loose clothing
- Refrain from going to the restroom before your appointment. Wait until you’re done with the urine sample.
What do I need to bring?
You’ll have to bring along your driver’s license along with any other photo or ID you have. If you wear eye glasses or contact lenses, bring those as well. An exam report for a recent eye exam would be helpful but isn’t required. If you use a hearing aid, bring that along too, along with a list of all the medications you take. If you have any illnesses or conditions that need regular treatment or just underwent surgery, illness or injury, you must have a medical release opinion letter with you as well. Also, if you have any skills performance evaluation, waiver or exemption certificate from the FMCSA, bring that as well. Just make sure these are current.
So just remember to bring everything you need and choose a treatment center that’s licensed to carry out the DOT physical and you’ll be fine.
