DOT Approved CDL Physical Exams

DOT CDL Physical is a medical examination required for individuals who wish to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in the United States. The examination is in compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, which are intended to ensure that CMV drivers are physically capable of safely operating their vehicles. The physical examination must be conducted by a medical professional who is certified by the FMCSA to perform DOT physicals. The examination includes a review of the driver’s medical history, a physical examination, and a vision test. Drivers must pass the examination in order to obtain or renew a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

A D.O.T approved physician is a medical professional who is certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to perform physical examinations for individuals who wish to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in the United States. These physicians must have the necessary qualifications and training to perform the physical examination in accordance with FMCSA regulations. This includes having knowledge of the medical conditions that can affect a driver’s ability to safely operate a CMV, as well as the FMCSA’s guidelines for issuing medical certificates to CMV drivers. D.O.T approved physicians are typically licensed medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathy (DOs) who specialize in occupational medicine or have experience in evaluating and treating commercial drivers.

A D.O.T Physical examination includes a review of the driver’s medical history, a physical examination, and a vision test. The examination is intended to ensure that the individual is physically capable of safely operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).

The medical history review includes a discussion of the driver’s current and past medical conditions, medications, and any surgeries or hospitalizations. The physical examination includes an assessment of the driver’s:

• Vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, respirations, temperature)
• Vision and hearing
• Range of motion and musculoskeletal system
• Cardiovascular and respiratory systems
• Abdomen and internal organs
• Neurological and mental health
• Urinalysis

The vision test is performed to check the driver’s visual acuity and peripheral vision. Drivers who wear corrective lenses or contact lenses must bring them to the examination.

The D.O.T approved physician will evaluate the driver’s overall health status, and if the driver passes the examination, the physician will issue a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) also known as a “DOT card” which is valid for a maximum of 2 years. If the driver does not pass the examination, the physician will indicate the reasons why and recommend any necessary follow-up tests or evaluations.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers to renew their D.O.T Physical every two years. The Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) issued by a D.O.T approved physician after passing the examination is also valid for 2 years. It is the driver’s responsibility to schedule and complete the D.O.T Physical examination before the expiration date of the MEC. The driver should allow enough time for the examination and any necessary follow-up testing or evaluations before the expiration date. Failure to renew the MEC before its expiration date can result in the driver being unable to operate a CMV, which can lead to financial loss and penalties. It’s always best to renew the MEC ahead of time to avoid any inconvenience.