DOT physicals for commercial drivers
Federal rules require most commercial motor vehicle drivers to pass a DOT medical exam and carry a current medical examiner’s certificate. The exam has to be done by a medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
The exam starts with a health history form you fill in. It then checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure and a urine sample, followed by a physical exam. The urine test looks at your general health. It isn’t a drug test, which is a separate process.
If you’re treated for a condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea or a heart problem, bring recent records from the doctor who manages it. Good records help the examiner decide on your certificate and can save you a second visit.
Pre-employment physicals
Many employers ask new hires for a physical before the first day. The employer decides what it includes, so bring their form or instructions with you. For school, sports and other exams that aren’t DOT, see physicals.
Workplace injuries
Cuts, burns, strains, sprains and suspected minor fractures that happen on the job can be seen as a same-day urgent visit, just like any other urgent care problem. Workers’ compensation claims are accepted. Tell us at the start that the injury happened at work, and bring the claim paperwork and any forms your employer or their insurer gave you.
Serious injuries are different. For a fall from height, a crush injury, heavy bleeding, a head injury, chest pain or trouble breathing, call 911 from the worksite.
Return-to-work visits
After an illness or injury, your employer may need a note saying you’re fit to return, or listing what you can and can’t do for a while. The doctor examines you, talks through the demands of your job and completes the paperwork your employer asked for, including FMLA medical certification and return-to-work forms. Bring the forms with you; each employer’s are different.
For employers
If your company sends drivers or staff to us for physicals or injury care, set up an employer account. The clinic is open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Drivers paying for their own DOT exam are welcome as self-pay patients, and for everyday care we accept most major plans, listed on our insurance page.
Bring to your DOT physical
- Your driver’s license
- Glasses, contact lenses or hearing aids, if you use them
- A list of every medicine you take, with names and doses
- Recent records for any ongoing condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea or a heart condition
- If you use a CPAP machine, a recent usage report
- Any paperwork from your employer or carrier
Common questions
How long is a DOT medical card good for?
Up to 24 months. If you have a condition that needs watching, such as high blood pressure, the examiner may certify you for a shorter period so it can be rechecked sooner.
Can I pass a DOT physical with diabetes or high blood pressure?
It depends on how well the condition is controlled, not just on having it. Bring recent records and readings to your exam. If you use insulin, call us before you book, because there are extra federal requirements.
Is a DOT physical the same as a DOT drug test?
No. The urine sample in a DOT physical checks your general health, not drugs. DOT drug testing is a separate process with its own rules, so ask us when you call whether it can be arranged here.
How can my company set up an employer account?
Use our employers page to set up an account. If you have questions first, call us at (281) 984-4550 during weekday hours.
Do you take workers’ compensation?
Yes. For an injury at work, tell us when you arrive that it’s a workers’ compensation visit and bring the claim paperwork from your employer or their insurer. We also complete FMLA and return-to-work forms; bring the forms your employer uses.
