DOT Physicals

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires a DOT physical to confirm professional drivers are medically fit to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). As a commercial driver, staying healthy and meeting federal safety standards is essential for keeping your career on the road.

At Grand Forks Clinic, we understand the importance of these exams and provide certified, hassle-free DOT physicals conducted by our experienced providers. Our goal is to help you maintain compliance with DOT regulations while prioritizing your health and well-being.

Purpose of DOT Physicals

A DOT physical is a medical examination required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for commercial drivers. This exam evaluates a driver’s physical and mental fitness to safely operate CMVs, such as semi-trucks, buses, and vehicles transporting hazardous materials.

Since commercial driving involves long hours on the road, strenuous conditions, and potential hazards, DOT physicals help ensure drivers are in optimal health to prevent accidents caused by medical conditions.

For example, you must be able to hear surrounding sounds, read road signs clearly, and remain alert. Certain health conditions or medications can impact these abilities, while others may increase the risk of medical emergencies that could compromise your safety and that of others on the road. Therefore, a DOT physical is important for both personal and public safety.

Who needs a DOT physical?

The DOT establishes regulations on who requires a DOT physical at the national level. Additionally, every state has its own rules, meaning you might need a DOT physical even if you drive only within state boundaries.

You may need a DOT physical if you:

Operate commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds (5 tons) or more.
Transport hazardous materials that require a placard.
Drive vehicles designed to carry 15 or more passengers, including the driver.
Hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and operate interstate or intrastate.

After the DOT physical, if you meet the required medical standards, you will receive a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), commonly known as a medical card.

Frequency of DOT Physicals

Most commercial drivers must complete a DOT physical every two years to maintain their qualifications. However, depending on your medical history, more frequent exams may be necessary.

Certain medical conditions require a DOT physical every year. This includes the following conditions.

Diabetes
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Heart diseases

If you have a serious condition, such as severely high blood pressure, you may be required to undergo physical exams every three months while receiving treatment to manage or improve your health.

What to Expect During Your DOT Physical

At Grand Forks Clinic, we provide a streamlined DOT physical examination process to ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations.

Please complete the FMCSA medical examination form by printing, filling in the required information, and bringing it with you to your appointment. After your DOT physical, our team completes your examination details for your DOT medical card.

Medical History Review

Our certified provider starts with discussing your medical history, including information about:

Previous surgeries or hospitalizations
Chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea
Medications you are currently taking
History of heart disease, neurological disorders, or respiratory issues
History of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal substance use

DOT Examination Components

Our team evaluates your general posture along with heart and lung function, neurological health, and musculoskeletal health.

As part of your examination, we may perform the following assessments.

Vision Test: The vision test will assess your visual acuity (how clearly you see at a distance) and your field of vision (how wide an area you can see when looking straight ahead). You should have at least 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in both eyes. These standards are necessary for reading road signs, spotting hazards, and ensuring safe driving.
Hearing Test: Your hearing will be tested to determine your ability to perceive low-volume sounds. Specifically, you should be able to detect a forced whisper from a distance of at least five feet, with or without a hearing aid. Adequate hearing is vital for safe driving, enabling you to detect horns, sirens, and other vehicles.
Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate Check: Your blood pressure and heart rate will be measured to assess for hypertension or other cardiovascular concerns. Maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system is crucial for overall well-being and reducing the risk of medical emergencies while driving.
Urinalysis: A urine test will be conducted to screen for potential health conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease. Detecting these issues early can help ensure your continued health and safety on the road.

Post-Examination Process

After completing the exam, our provider determines your fitness for duty. If you meet all requirements, you’ll receive a DOT medical certificate valid for up to two years.

In some cases, additional testing or specialist evaluations may be needed before you can receive certification. You may also be issued a shorter certification period, requiring more frequent check-ups to monitor your health in cases where your health status necessitates it.

How to Prepare for Your DOT Physical

To ensure a stress-free DOT physical exam, we advise you to bring:

Valid driver’s license or another form of ID
Eyeglasses or contact lenses, if required for driving
Hearing aids, if applicable
List of current medications, including dosage and prescribing physician information
Medical history records, including information on past surgeries, chronic conditions, or recent hospitalizations
Recent A1C or blood glucose test results if you have diabetes
Monitor your readings before your appointment and bring a record if you have high blood pressure
CPAP compliance reports if using CPAP therapy for sleep apnea

To prepare for your DOT physical and improve your chances of passing, you can follow these additional steps:

Take all prescribed medications as directed and ensure your prescriptions are up to date
If you wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, have your eyes examined and update your prescription if needed
Avoid excessive drinking, quit smoking, and stay substance-free
Reduce your intake of salty foods that can raise blood pressure and sugary foods that can affect blood glucose levels
Exercise regularly and follow a balanced diet to support your overall well-being

Our team provides comprehensive support and guidance during your DOT physical, ensuring a stress-free experience by answering your questions and addressing any health concerns that may affect your certification.

Schedule DOT Physicals at Grands Forks Clinic

At Grand Forks Clinic, we provide efficient, professional, and FMCSA-compliant DOT physical exams to keep you on the road. Our team is dedicated to providing a hassle-free experience during your appointment and ensures you receive your DOT medical certificate quickly.

Schedule your DOT physical by calling us at (701) 775-5800 or requesting an appointment online.

Medical Examination Report Form