A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is a health examination mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMV)
. It verifies that the driver is physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely
. Requirements for a DOT Physical
You will need a DOT physical if you:
- Drive a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people
- Are paid to drive a vehicle designed to carry more than eight people
- Carry hazardous material in your vehicle that requires a placard
- Drive a vehicle on the interstate with a gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight of 10,000 pounds (5 tons) or more
What to Expect During a DOT Physical The DOT physical includes a health history review, vital signs check, and thorough examination, covering aspects such as general appearance, extremities, lungs and chest, heart, eyes and ears, mouth and throat, nervous system, and back and spine
. The health care provider will ask detailed questions about your medical history, including any past surgeries, current medications, health problems, and substance use
. The physical exam includes checking your:
- Height
- Weight
- Blood pressure
- Vision
- Hearing
- General appearance
- Skin
- Eyes
- Ears
- Mouth and throat
- Heart
- Lungs and chest
- Abdomen
- Back and spine
- Genital and urinary system, including checking for hernias
- Extremities and joints
- Nervous system, including your reflexes
- Gait, which is how you walk
- Circulatory system, which includes your arteries, veins, and lymphatic system
The exam also includes a urinalysis to check for protein, blood, sugar, and specific gravity
. Vision testing requires at least 20/40 visual acuity in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses, and a minimum peripheral vision of 70 degrees in both eyes
. Hearing tests require the ability to hear a "forced whisper" from five feet away, with or without hearing aids
