Transportation (DOT) Physical

Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals are required for people who are operating commercial vehicles. To help ensure the safety of these drivers and others on the roadway, Fast Pace Health offers DOT exams and services for any commercial driver that requires a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Once you have established that you need a DOT physical, our certified providers will perform a variety of exams during your physical and determine that you can safely operate a commercial vehicle.

Drivers often face long, hard hours while traveling countless miles.  All Fast Pace Health DOT Examiners are certified and up-to-date with the National Registry system, state laws, and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Visit any of our convenient locations today to complete your DOT Physical Exam.

What is a DOT Physical?

The associated physical is very specific and must be administered by a certified medical examiner to determine if a driver can operate a variety of larger motor vehicles over a certain weight. It is a required physical for the operation of most commercial motor vehicles.

Getting your DOT Physical is simple – just walk into any of our convenient clinics today.

What does a DOT Physical include?

In the interest of public safety, FMCSA recently expanded the requirements of the DOT Physical to include a more comprehensive examination of each driver (Review New Standards). DOT Physical will include the following components:

• Review of past or recent illnesses or injuries
• Review of current medications, including controlled substances
• Review of any medical conditions such as heart disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.
• Physical exam
• Blood pressure and pulse checks
• Vision acuity test
• Hearing test
• Urine dip screen
• CSMD report and possibly a urine drug screen, if taking controlled substances
• If needed, other tests for cardiac or pulmonary and respiratory conditions

What are the basic requirements for passing a DOT Physical?

Under current standards set forth by the FMCSA, a driver must meet the following basic requirements:

• At least 20/40 correctable vision in each eye, as well as both combined – glasses or contacts, are allowed
• Able to distinguish colors found on traffic signals
• Forced whisper test to detect adequate hearing
• Controlled blood pressure under 140/90 – prescription medication may be used to control blood pressure
• Cannot have diabetes that requires insulin injections
• Maximum blood sugar level allowed is 200
• No use of a schedule 1 drug (controlled substance), amphetamine, narcotic or habit-forming drug
• For any exemptions for vision, diabetes, etc., please bring the exemption to your physical exam

Helpful Resources for Drivers

For more information about the standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, visit these resources:

• DOT Form
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 
• Driver Medical Exams 
• Driver FAQs 
• Regulations for DOTs 

Commonly Asked Questions

What do I need to bring to my DOT Physical?

In order to complete the DOT Physical exam, drivers MUST bring the following items:

Every Driver:

• Completed DOT Form
• Valid Driver License
• Pocket Certificate
• Glasses, contacts or anything you routinely use for vision enhancement
• All prescription medication bottles (including over the counter medications)
• Complete list of doctors that you visit and their phone numbers

If You Have Diabetes

• Complete list of medications and name of prescribing doctor
• Copies of blood sugar results or hemoglobin A1C results from the past 3 months

If You Have High Blood Pressure

• Complete list of medications and name of prescribing doctor

If You Have Sleep Apnea

• A copy of your latest sleep apnea compliance report from the past 6 months

If You Have a Heart Condition

• Complete list of medications and name of prescribing doctor
• If you’ve had a heart attack or cardiovascular disease, a copy of your last stress test or release from your cardiologist

How long is my DOT Physical valid?

A DOT physical exam is valid for 12 to 24 months based on your health history and physical exam.  The medical examiner may issue a shorter medical examiner’s certificate when it is desirable to monitor a condition, such as high blood pressure.

How do I find a certified medical examiner?

A licensed medical examiner will be listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry website. All Fast Pace Health providers are required to be DOT certified within 60 days of hire.

How long does a DOT physical take?

Pending there are no medical concerns, the physical usually just takes 30-45 minutes.

What can I expect at a DOT physical?

• Vital signs
• Urinalysis
• Hearing and vision exam
• Extensive physical exam

My blood pressure goes up when I get a physical. What can I do?

• Get plenty of rest before your exam. Being fatigued can elevate your BP.
• Avoid nicotine/caffeine for at least 3 hours before your exam.
• Avoid very salty foods 24hrs before your exam as sodium can increase your fluid retention and blood pressure.
• Stay relaxed. Do not talk. Stress and anxiety can elevate your BP as well.
• Make sure the BP cuff is placed directly on your arm. Taking it over clothing can cause adverse elevations of your numbers.
• Keep your feet flat on the floor and your arms supported. Crossing your legs can cause increased BP up to 10mmHg.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 9-1-1.