What is a DOT Physical?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets regulations for safe operation of commercial vehicles in the country. Each state also has specific regulations. The test assesses your general health, as well as mental and emotional fitness for the demands of professional driving. In order to drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), you must first meet the DOT physical exam requirements and obtain a medical card. While this might be similar to other physicals you’ve had in the past, professional truck drivers must take a specific test that meets federal DOT guidelines before they are allowed to get on the road.
Who is required to have a DOT Physical?
- If they operate a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), gross combination weight rating (GCWR), gross vehicle weight (GCW), or gross combination weight (GCW) of 10,001 pounds or more.
- If they transport hazardous materials, in a quantity requiring placards.
- If they operate a motor vehicle designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver).
- If they operate a motor vehicle designed or used to transport between 9 and 15 passengers, for direct compensation, beyond 75 air miles from the driver’s normal work-reporting location.
Where do I get a DOT Physical?
As of May 2014 Federal Law requires all drivers of commercial motor vehicle to obtain a Medical Examiners Certificate (MEC) by receiving a physical examination by only a Certified Medical Examiner listed on Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry.
At Infinity Medical Services we value your time. There are a few things that you can do to make your next DOT physical quicker and easier and get back on the road in no time. We accept walk in DOT Physicals but recommend giving us a call to schedule an appointment as that will help shorten your visit.
- *Please bring current valid photo ID
- *Be sure you are taking any prescribed medications as directed by your doctor and bring a list of any medications you are taking, in addition to a list of any medical conditions you are being treated for.
- *Bring glasses or wear your contacts as vision must be 20/40 in each eye to pass
- *Hearing Aids if applicable.
- *Bring copies of any recent bloodwork/testing done by your regular doctors, i.e. stress test, EKG, HBA1C.
- *CPAP compliance summary for the last 90 days you have sleep apnea.
- *Avoid caffeine and tobacco as much as possible in the 24 hrs leading up to your appointment.
Also please note that medical insurance does not cover the DOT Physical, for your convenience we accept cash and all major credit cards.
Our Walk in Hours for DOT Physicals:
Monday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tuesday: 3:00 pm – 6:00pm
Thursday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
