Before you can drive a commercial vehicle, federal law requires you to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination and carry a valid medical certificate. Here's everything you need to know.
Who Needs a DOT Physical?
Any CDL holder who operates in interstate commerce must maintain a current DOT medical certificate. Many intrastate operators are also required to pass a DOT physical depending on state rules. Check with your state DMV for specifics.
What Does the DOT Physical Test?
Vision
You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses) and a horizontal field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye. You must be able to distinguish traffic signal colors.
Hearing
You must be able to perceive a forced whispered voice in your better ear at 5 feet or more (with or without a hearing aid).
Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a common reason for conditional certification. Blood pressure must be below 140/90 to receive a 2-year certificate. Higher readings result in shorter certification periods and may require treatment.
Diabetes
Insulin-treated diabetics were previously disqualified from CDL driving but FMCSA now has a diabetes exemption program. Oral medication for diabetes generally does not disqualify you.
Sleep Apnea
Untreated sleep apnea is disqualifying. If you're diagnosed, you must show compliance with treatment (typically CPAP therapy) to receive medical certification.
Other Conditions
Examiners will also check for heart conditions, neurological disorders, vision or hearing impairments, and substance abuse history — all of which can affect certification.
How to Find a Certified Examiner
Your DOT physical must be performed by a medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. Find one at nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov. Many urgent care clinics, occupational health clinics, and some chiropractors are certified.
Medical Certificate Duration
- 2 years — standard for healthy drivers
- 1 year or less — for drivers with certain controlled conditions (blood pressure, diabetes)
How to Prepare
- Bring a list of all current medications and dosages
- Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them
- Bring your hearing aids if you wear them
- Know your medical history — past surgeries, diagnoses, hospitalizations
- Avoid caffeine before the exam to keep blood pressure accurate