DOT PHYSICALS
The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators to have the DOT physical exam to maintain their driver certification. The DOT deems professional drivers who operate commercial vehicles of five tons or more as 'safety-sensitive' because they can affect both their safety and the public's safety. Drivers must provide periodic physical examination reports to maintain compliance and continue working. Certified Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical examiners can perform the DOT physical. Your exam at Heart 2 Heart Family Practice follows the specific guidelines of the FMCSA to ensure that commercial drivers are in satisfactory health and able to work safely.
What to know before your visit:
Insurance is not accepted for DOT physicals at Heart 2 Heart Family Practice.
Bring any required forms including the DOT Medical Examination Report with Driver Information and Health History sections completed.
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Our practitioners can only verify immunizations administered at our practice or with appropriate documentation.
A DOT physical should not replace an annual wellness physical.
Call the office to schedule an appointment with the provider.
What to expect at your visit:​
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Your practitioner will review your medical history and immunizations and perform a simple physical exam.
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Your physical includes a urinalysis. This is included in the cost of the physical.
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Your practitioner will complete your Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness Determination form, provide a summary, a receipt, and a Medical Examiner's Certificate, as appropriate.
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The summary of your visit can be sent to your primary care provider with your permission.
What do DOT physicals consist of?
The DOT physical comprises of tests, measurements, and evaluations, including:
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Blood pressure and pulse rate. Your MinuteClinic provider will check your blood pressure and pulse to measure your systolic and diastolic pressure levels, as well as testing for irregular heart rate.
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Urinalysis. A urine test screens for indications of underlying medical conditions such as diabetes.
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Vision. Drivers must have a minimum acuity of 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. They must also have at least 70º of peripheral vision in each eye along the horizontal meridian.
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Hearing. Drivers must be able to hear a 'forced whisper' at a maximum distance of 5 ft. with or without a hearing aid. The standard equates to a hearing loss of less than 40 dB in the better ear.
Physical examination covering the following categories:
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Eyes (cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, etc.)
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Ears (scarring or perforated eardrums, etc.)
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Mouth and throat, to check for breathing or swallowing difficulties
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Extremities such as limb impairment
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Heart (irregular sounds, murmurs, pacemaker, etc.)
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Vascular system (irregular pulse, carotid artery, varicose veins)
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Lungs and chest, not including breast examination (abnormal breathing, cyanosis, impaired respiratory functions, etc.)
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Abdomen and viscera (enlarged liver, muscle weakness, viscera)
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Hernia
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Spine and other musculoskeletal issues, including limited motion, previous surgery, tenderness, etc.
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Neurological conditions including ataxia, asymmetrical deep tendon reflexes, coordination, impaired equilibrium or speech pattern
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The DOT physical examination at Heart 2 Heart Family Practice forms a part of your medical certificate. It confirms your health status for being able to perform the demanding profession of a CMV driver, and help keep the nation's roads safe.
A DOT physical examination is not intended to replace a comprehensive annual wellness exam.
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