What is a DOT Physical & What Does it Entail?

Before you can get your CDL (commercial driver’s license), the Department of Transportation requires you to take a DOT medical exam.

Due to the heavy physical demands of a commercial driving job, it’s necessary to examine your physical condition to ensure the lifestyle doesn’t take a toll on your body. The goal is to ensure that you can safely operate a commercial motor vehicle as well as hitch and unhitch a tractor-trailer or change tires when a need arises.

Drug testing is not routinely conducted unless mandated by your employer for operating commercial vehicles. Blood sugar is not tested either. There is a urine test for blood, sugar, and protein. Urine is not screened for drugs or other medical issues.

The duration of a CDL Medical Certificate is valid depends on your situation. Most young drivers without any medical conditions will qualify for a two-year certification. Your CDL Card may be restricted to one year or less based on the guidelines issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

The Medical Examiner has to follow those guidelines strictly. If you have medical problems, it is best to bring your latest test results, medication history, and laboratory results including Stress Tests, Diabetes Tests, or notes from your consulting physicians (Cardiologist, Psychiatrist, etc.) If you have sleep apnea, it is good to bring the Sleep Log Report for the last 6 months.

Once you check-in, the old CDL Medical Card expires automatically. If you abandon the process, it has to be submitted as such to the DOT, under federal law.