What to expect during a DOT physical
The physical consists of an eye exam, a urine sample, a review of your medical history and medications, and an assessment of your ability to drive.
The certified medical examiner will check your vitals, such as your weight and blood pressure, and conduct a hands-on exam that includes, but is not limited to, the areas listed here.
After the physical, your examiner will provide you with a medical examiner’s certificate, known as the DOT physical card. You must have this card in order to maintain your CDL.
The examiner checks
- General appearance
- Eyes
- Ears
- Mouth and throat
- Lungs and chest
- Medical history
Do you need a DOT physical?
You must get a DOT physical if you do any of the following.
- Operate a motor vehicle for interstate commerce with a gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight of over 10,000 pounds
- Operate a motor vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people
- Are paid to operate a motor vehicle designed to carry more than eight people
- Transport hazardous materials that require your vehicle to be placarded
