Commercial vehicle drivers play an important role in our economy by getting goods where they need to go. Without them, our exchange of goods would slow to a crawl. If you’ve been a commercial driver for a while, you’ve likely had a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical before. However, if you’re a prospective driver, this may be the first time you’re hearing about it.
Madhav Devani, MD, and our team of health care professionals at Ross Bridge Medical Center in Hoover, Alabama, can answer all of your questions and give you your DOT physical. In this blog, we explain what a DOT physical involves.
What is a DOT physical?
A DOT physical is a physical examination that’s performed by a medical professional to give a prospective driver clearance to drive a commercial truck or bus. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) puts safety as its top priority.
Commercial drivers often travel long distances in various conditions, and sometimes they have to make quick, life-saving decisions. Because of this, the FMCSA wants to make sure that commercial drivers are healthy and able to carry out their duties safely.
What happens during a DOT physical?
Upon arriving for your appointment, one of our team members greets you and notes your weight, height, and vital signs. Then, Dr. Devani meets with you to discuss your medical history, including your immunizations, and conducts a physical examination to determine whether you’re in good enough health to meet the DOT requirements.
You can also expect to undergo screenings to check the following:
- Blood pressure
- Blood sugar
- Chronic diseases
- Communicable diseases
- Drugs
If any treatment is required, Dr. Devani can discuss your options. Examinations are valid for up to 24 months. However, Dr. Devani can issue a certificate for less time if he deems more frequent checkups are necessary.
Certain exemptions may be obtained, though they are only valid for interstate commerce (between multiple states) and do not include intrastate commerce (within one state). You’ll need to bring a government-issued photo ID, required DOT forms or applications, and your immunization records.
If you need to take a DOT physical, we can give you the help you need. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Ross Bridge Medical Center today.
