Medical stethoscope and blood pressure cuff on a white surface.

DOT Physicals

Commercial drivers need a DOT physical to meet the Department of Transportation's health and safety standards.

Our certified medical examiners provide fast, thorough exams to keep you compliant. Whether you're renewing your CDL medical certificate or getting one for the first time, we've got you covered.

We aim for a friendly approach to a serious subject matter. We do this by not being confrontational, but rather in a friendly interaction in a positive and welcoming exchange between people, characterized by warmth, openness, and mutual respect. We try to minimize the stress of the experience by showing compassion and understanding.

DOT Physical FAQs

A young man with a beard and short hair standing outdoors, smiling, wearing a black hoodie and jeans, with trucks in the background.

  • A DOT physical is required to determine if a person is medically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely.

  • A DOT medical card is allowed every 2 years, but some medical conditions require the exam yearly or less depending on the conditions.

  • A DOT physical consists of a head to toe screening exam. The exam checks hearing, vision, blood pressure, lungs, heart, and abdomen. A urinalysis is also required to screen for blood, protein, and glucose. Past medical history and medications are also reviewed.

    • You will need to bring a state issued photo ID to verify identity. 

    • Eyeglasses or contact lenses if required for driving.

    • Hearing aids if required to drive.

    • Current list of medications.

    • Medical release or lab work for certain health conditions i.e. A1C for diabetes, echocardiogram for cardiac stents or heart issues, INR for Coumadin usage.

    • CPAP usage summary report (30-90 days).

    • Federal waiver, SPE certificate, Evaluation forms for insulin or vision. (Download Forms Here).

  • The exam process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You will fill out paperwork, do the exam, then check-out and receive copies of the long form and a medical card.

  • Be sure to avoid any caffeine, nicotine, allergy medicine before your exam. Be well rested to help keep blood pressure from elevating.

More FAQs

Important Forms

  • A stethoscope with black tubing and a metal chest piece lying on a flat surface.

    Medical Exam Report Form

    All drivers will need to print this form and bring it to their appointment.

    MCSA-5875
  • Yellow paper ribbon award on a blue background.

    Medical Examiner's Certificate

    All drivers will need to print this form and bring it to their appointment.

    MCSA-5876
  • Blood glucose meter displaying a level of 103 mg/dL and a white lancing device on a light orange background.

    Insulin Form

    If you are diabetic and on insulin, have your PCP complete this form prior to your appointment and bring it with you.

    MCSA-5870
  • Spectacles held up in front of an eye chart, viewing the letters through the lenses.

    Vision Form

    If you have monocular vision, please print the form below and have your ophthalmologist or optometrist complete it. The form must be filled out within 45 days of your CDL medical exam.

    MCSA-5871

What to Bring with You

Waiting area in an office with chairs, potted plants, a display of pills, with large windows and lots of light.

Every Driver

  • A photo ID.

  • Medical Exam Report Form
    (MCSA-5875).

  • Medical Examiner’s Certificate Form
    (MCSA-5876).

  • Any recent lab work.

  • A complete list of all medications, including dosages and the prescribing doctors’ names and addresses.

Drivers Issued Waivers

  • If you have ever been issued a waiver, make sure it is current. These can include the following: hearing, an impaired/ missing limb, etc.

  • If you have been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, you may need to obtain a clearance from either a psychologist or psychiatrist.

Drivers with Diabetes

  • If you are diabetic and on insulin, print out and have your PCP complete Form MCSA-5870 prior to your appointment and bring it with you.

Drivers with Vision Issues

  • If you have monocular vision, please print Form MCSA-5871 and have your ophthalmologist or optometrist complete it.

  • The form must be filled out within 45 days of your CDL medical exam.

  • Bring contact lenses, glasses, or any device you normally use to see.

Drivers with Hearing Difficulties

  • Bring your hearing aids for your exam.

Drivers with Heart or Brain Issues

  • A detailed history of your health and a letter that designates you as safe to work from your cardiologist or neurologist.

  • For heart issues, results from a recent stress test or cardiogram test.

Drivers with Permanent Limb Loss

  • A Skilled Performance Examination (SPE).

  • An overview from your doctor about any work restrictions from the injury.

Drivers with Sleep Apnea

  • Bring a current 30 or 90 day CPAP Report.