D.O.T Physical Exams
This exam is specifically for commercial drivers and is required by the government if you are a new hire or are thinking about going into this field then it is important you get this exam as soon as possible. This exam will be performed by a CME ( Certified Medical Examiner) prior to operating a commercial motor vehicle. These physical exams follow a very specific protocol made by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
DOT requirements to pass:
1. Your vision must be 20/40 in each eye and with both eyes combined, with or without correction.
2. You must be able to determine the difference between the colors of traffic lights.
3. You should be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of at least 5 feet.
4. You cannot have blood pressure over 160/100.
5. Your blood sugar must be no higher than 200.
6. You cannot be using habit forming drugs, amphetamines or narcotics.
7. If you have a cardiac problem, such as heart failure, you need to have passed a stress test with a note from the physician stating you have no driving restrictions.
What Happens Next?
Upon finishing the physical exam, the examiner will complete his or her assessment and complete the required physical paperwork. The provider can certify a driver for the full two-year period or chose a shorter time period if medically necessary. Some health conditions require routine annual monitoring while others may just need a shortened initial monitoring period while other testing is performed. A certification card will be provided to the driver at the conclusion of the visit.