DOT PHYSICALS
The DOT physical is a comprehensive examination of your health that reviews your medical history and current fitness to ensure you’re healthy enough to be driving for a living. Ken Wamwiri, MSN, FNP-C at Evergreen Medical Clinic, in Arlington, Texas, is a certified medical examiner with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and therefore, can perform DOT physicals. If you need to undergo a DOT physical, call the clinic today, or book an appointment online. (817) 591-0822
DOT Physicals Q & A
What is a DOT physical?
The DOT physical is the Department of Transportation Medical Examination required by federal law for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).
The DOT physical examines your physical and mental health to ensure that you’re healthy enough to be on the road and that you have the emotional stability to manage extended periods of driving. If you’re a professional driver, you need to undergo a DOT physical at least every two years.
Only certified medical examiners (CMEs) can perform DOT physicals, as authorized by the Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Evergreen Testosterone Clinic & Primary Care has CMEs on staff who have extensive experience of carrying out DOT physicals.
How should I prepare for a DOT physical?
Make sure you take everything you need to your DOT physical, or your CME won’t be able to examine you. You need to bring:
- Completed DOT exam form
- Driver’s license and pocket certificate
- Glasses or contact lenses if you wear them
- Hearing aid if you need one
- Any medications you normally use
- Release form for any previous heart problems
- Sleep study report if you have sleep apnea
You should also make sure you’ve had enough to drink so you can produce a urine sample.
What happens during a DOT physical?
First, your CME reviews your medical history and previous DOT physicals and discusses your current health with you. They then carry out a physical exam very similar to an annual physical, but with the emphasis on ensuring there are no issues with your health that would cause problems with your ability to drive safely.
Checks and tests on a DOT physical include:
- Height and weight measurements
- Sight test
- Blood pressure check
- Heart function
- Lung function
- Abdominal examination
- Blood test
- Urine test
- Hernia screening
- Check for spinal abnormalities
- Neurological exam
Drug testing is an essential component of the DOT physical, to ensure there’s no trace of alcohol or illegal substances in your body. The test looks for marijuana, cocaine, opiates (heroin, codeine and opium derivatives), PCP (phencyclidine), amphetamines and methamphetamines.
