DOT Physical

If you operate a commercial vehicle, such as a bus or semi-truck, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) requires you to undergo a DOT physical every two years. At Medical Access, with convenient locations in Germantown, Maryland, and in Alexandria and Woodbridge, Virginia, the team performs DOT physicals on-site. To schedule your DOT physical today, call the nearest office, or book a consultation online.

Who needs a DOT physical?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has a specific set of guidelines for the type of drivers that require a DOT physical exam. It’s important to schedule a DOT physical if:

• You operate a vehicle that weighs 10,001 pounds or more
• You transport hazardous materials
• The vehicle you drive carries 15 or more passengers
• You drive a vehicle that transports passengers 75 miles or more

A DOT physical exam ensures you’re healthy enough to operate a commercial motor vehicle, without putting yourself or others at risk. 

What should I bring to my DOT physical?

There are several important items you should bring to your DOT physical, including:

• Government-issued identification (driver’s license)
• List of your medications
• Prescription eyewear
• Hearing aids

If you have a chronic medical condition, you also need to bring a note from the doctor who manages that condition to your DOT physical exam.

What can I expect during my DOT physical?

Medical Access has a team of licensed medical examiners who specialize in DOT physicals. On the day of your DOT physical, arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. This gives you plenty of time to fill out an occupational health registration form and the medical history portion of the Medical Examination Report, form MCSA-5875.

During your appointment, your provider conducts a comprehensive physical exam. They measure your height and weight, check your vision and hearing, assess your heart rate and blood pressure, and order a urinalysis. 

Your provider also orders a NIDA-5 panel drug screen with MRO to test for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, phencyclidine (PCP), and opioids. After receiving the results of your blood tests and urinalysis, your provider completes any necessary paperwork and determines if you qualify for a medical examiner’s certificate or DOT card

If you have an underlying medical condition that increases your risk of an accident, such as vision issues or sleep apnea, you may not receive approval. In many cases, you can remedy the disqualifying factor with regular check-ups and a custom treatment plan.

How often do I need a DOT physical?

If you’re in good health, you need a DOT physical exam to update your medical certificate every two years. However, if your provider at Medical Access has concerns about your health and how it may interfere with your driving, then you may need more frequent updates.

The DOT physical is a mandated exam that can only be conducted by a qualified medical examiner. To schedule your DOT physical, call the nearest Medical Access location today, or book a consultation online.