Certified Department of Transportation (DoT) Physical Exams

A DOT physical is an essential medical examination designed to ensure you meet national standards for safely operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). As a certified medical examiner, it’s my responsibility to confirm that you are safe to operate a CMV.

This exam assesses your ability to perform essential tasks such as hearing sounds around you, seeing road signs, and staying alert while driving. Certain health conditions or medications can impact these abilities, and some may pose risks for medical emergencies that could endanger both you and others on the road.

I understand that preparing for this exam can be stressful, especially when it impacts your career. However, it's important to remember that many health conditions do not necessarily disqualify you from driving a CMV, and many issues are manageable or treatable. 

You may need to have certain forms filled out by your treating provider in order to clarify any condition being treated, the medication used, whether it impacts your ability to operate a CMV, and your treating provider's endorsement that s/he feels you are stable. Please refer to “what to bring to your DOT physical” section. 

If you don’t have a primary care provider (PCP), I offer a supportive 3-month program designed to address and resolve any deficiencies identified during your exam. This program is available to nonmembers and aims to assist you in meeting the necessary requirements for certification.  

What to Bring to Your DOT Physical Exam:

By understanding the exam requirements, you can approach your DOT physical with greater confidence and all the tools you need to succeed. 

General Requirements for All Drivers:

• A complete list of all medications, including dosages and your doctors’ names and practice information. 
• A comprehensive health history so we can easily identify areas that need review. When you schedule online you will receive a health history form that must be filled out prior to your appointment. 

For Drivers Who Use Eyeglasses, Contact Lenses, or Hearing Aids:

• Bring/Wear your glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids to the exam. You will need to pass a vision and hearing test and may use corrective lenses and a hearing aid to qualify.

For Drivers with High Blood Pressure:

• Ensure your blood pressure is below 140/90 on the day of the exam.
• Avoid caffeine or nicotine products for at least 2 hours before your appointment.

For Drivers with Diabetes:

• Bring the most recent results of your hemoglobin A1C to assess blood sugar control.
• If you use insulin, your treating provider (PCP or specialist) MUST complete the Insulin Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment Form MCS-5870 and you need to bring it with you.

For Drivers with Sleep Apnea/Hypopnea Using a CPAP Machine:

• Provide documentation from your CPAP/BIPAP machine showing proper usage over the past 3 months.
• Alternatively, a letter from your sleep specialist if they monitor your usage.

For Drivers with Heart-Related Conditions:

• At a minimum, bring a letter from your cardiologist detailing your medical history, current medications, and confirming that you are fit to drive a CMV. Form MCSA-5895 has a detailed job description for review. 
• Include results of a recent stress test or echocardiogram completed within the past 1-2 years if applicable.
• If you are on blood thinners (anticoagulant) such as warfarin, bring a copy of your most recent INR.

For Drivers Who Have Had a Stroke, Brain Tumor, Seizure Disorder, or Brain Bleeding:

• Provide a letter from your neurologist outlining your medical history, current medications, and current neurologic status.

For Drivers with Permanent Loss of Use in a Hand/Arm or Foot/Leg:

• Bring a letter from your physiatrist describing the nature of the injury, any required accommodations, and any work restrictions.
• You will need to undergo a Skilled Performance Examination (SPE) to qualify for your DOT card. Those are facilitated through FMCSA and more information can be found on the FMCSA website. 

For Drivers Taking Medications That May Cause Sedation or Controlled Substances:

• You will need medication form MCSA 5895 filled out by your treating provider regarding the condition being treated, the stability of your condition, and if s/he feels you are safe while driving a CMV when using these medications, which may include:
  • Narcotics
  • Sleeping pills
  • Anxiety medication
  • ADHD medication

Note: This list may not cover all scenarios. Additional testing or information may be required by your DOT examiner to determine your status.