What is a DOT Exam?The DOT (Department of Transportation) physical is a medical exam required for those who wish to drive commercial vehicles professionally. This exam ensures that drivers are physically capable of handling the responsibilities of the job, including operating large vehicles or those carrying passengers, without compromising safety. Upon passing, drivers receive a certification card, which must be renewed every 1-2 years throughout their career. A DOT physical exam is required if you:

• Transport hazardous materials.
• Operate a vehicle that carries over 15 passengers.
• Are paid to drive a vehicle that holds more than 8 passengers.
• Drive a vehicle with a gross combined weight greater than 10,000 lbs.

How do you prepare for the exam?

• If you are healthy and fit, minimal preparation is needed.
• If you are overweight, recovering from a serious health issue, or managing a medical condition, more preparation may be necessary. This includes ensuring prescriptions are up to date, having a recent vision test, and ensuring hearing aids are functioning properly if used.
• Reducing intake of processed foods, alcohol, and smoking is also advisable.

What to bring to your exam:

• Health history and immunization records.
• A list of any medications you are taking.
• Recent lab results (Hemoglobin A1C and blood sugar logs) if you have diabetes.
• Eyeglasses, contacts, or hearing aids, if used.

What does the exam consist of?

• Physical Exam: Examination of eyes, ears, mouth, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, spine, limbs, and nervous system.
• Vision Test: A requirement of at least 20/40 vision in both eyes, with or without correction, and a peripheral vision of 70 degrees in each eye.
• Hearing Test: Ability to hear a "forced whisper" from five feet away, with or without hearing aids.
• Blood Pressure Check: Blood pressure must be under 140/90. If between 140/90 and 179/109, a more frequent medical exam or a temporary medical card may be required.
• Urine Test: Checks for medical conditions like diabetes (not drug use).
• Sleep Apnea Test: Required if symptoms such as daytime drowsiness, morning headaches, snoring, or gasping while sleeping are present. Additional testing is necessary for those with a high BMI or specific neck circumference.

Qualifications to pass the exam:

• 20/40 vision in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses.
• Blood sugar levels below 200.
• No history of drug addiction.
• Blood pressure below 140/90.
• Ability to distinguish the colors of a stoplight.
• Ability to hear a whispered voice from 5 feet away.
• If you have a pre-existing heart condition, a passed stress test is required.

What happens if you fail?Depending on the severity of your condition, you may be temporarily disqualified from driving. A reexamination would be necessary, possibly within a few months, to obtain a medical card. During this period, it's important to work with your doctor to improve your health.