As a commercial driver, you know that there are quite a few rules and regulations that you need to stay on top of to comply with the Department of Transportation (DOT). These regulations, set out by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), ensure that drivers are fully capable of performing their duties.

A physical exam is one of those things that you need to do to follow these rules. Today, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about getting your DOT physical exam for commercial drivers.

Who Needs a DOT Physical?

The DOT physical exam is necessary not only for commercial drivers but also for bus drivers and warehouse/logistics drivers. This exam ensures that you are in good health and can handle the high demands of commercial driving.

To make things easy for you, we’ve created a checklist of things you need to know or do before, during, and after your examination.

Before the Exam

• Keep taking vitamins, supplements, and medications as directed by your doctor.
• Avoid using the restroom just before the exam. You will be asked to provide a urine sample during your physical.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of the exam.

What to Bring to the Exam

• Driver’s license or photo ID
• Any medical aids you usually use, like glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids
• A list of your current medications, supplements, and vitamins. Include your prescriber’s information as well
• Medical release opinion letter from all of your doctors or specialists that are treating you
• FMCSA Skills Performance Evaluation or Waiver of Exemption Certificate

During the Examination:

• Be prepared to answer any questions the doctor may have about your health history, medications, etc.
• The doctor will conduct a physical examination of your basic functions and current health.
• A urine test will check for urine protein, urine blood, urine sugar, and urine specific gravity.

After the Examination

Once the physical exam has been completed successfully, you will be issued a DOT medical card. Below are how long the cards are good for, depending on the results of your physical exam.

• If you meet FMCSA regulations, you will be issued a 2-year DOT medical card.
• If certain medical conditions have been identified during your exam, you may be given a 6-month or 1-year limited time card so the condition may be reviewed regularly.
• If you have been diagnosed with a recent condition that you are working with your doctor to get treated, you might only be issued a 1- to 3-month card.
• If you have severe medical conditions, you may be denied a DOT medical card. This disqualification may be nulled if you are able to successfully treat your medical condition.

Getting a DOT physical is a necessary part of maintaining your commercial driving license. If you need an exam ASAP, get in touch with your local urgent care center to get your DOT exam completed on the same day. Or call ahead to make a booking.
 

Commercial truck drivers, bus drivers, and other drivers that need a DOT physical can do so by visiting AFC Urgent Care Edgewater today! Drivers can visit our local urgent care center and walk-in clinic just minutes from Annapolis, Edgewater, and other nearby communities for walk-in DOT physicals. No appointment is needed!