DOT Physicals
Physical Exam for Commercial Drivers
Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examinations are required to be able to drive a commercial motor vehicle. DOT physicals can only be conducted by a licensed medical examiner.
What a DOT Physical Includes
These screenings include a physical examination and urine test, as required by the DOT, for drivers carrying commercial loads on public roads.
The physical exam portion will include an assessment of your vision, hearing, heart, blood pressure and pulse rate, and lungs. It is important to be able to ensure you are healthy enough to safely operate a commercial vehicle – and to sit for long periods of time. A healthcare provider will also review your medical history to ensure you do not have medical conditions that might interfere with your ability to drive for long stretches of time.
Additionally, a provider may ask whether you have certain vaccinations, such as for hepatitis, flu, polio, tetanus, and typhoid.
What It Takes to Pass a DOT Physical
To qualify for a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you need to be either 18 years old (to drive within the state) or 21 (to drive outside the state) and physically fit. The qualifications for a CDL are set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Once you have a CDL, it must be renewed every 2 years.
To pass the DOT physical exam, the following is required:
- Vision must be at least 20/40, with or without corrective lenses (glasses/contacts)
- Blood pressure must be < 140/90
- Hearing must allow for the understanding of a loud whisper from several feet away
Cost of a DOT Physical
Our price at United Medical for a DOT physical is $140, made up of $120 for the physical exam and $20 for the urinalysis. Insurance is not accepted for DOT physicals and payment is due at the time of your visit.
How to Prepare for Your DOT Physical
Here are some tips on preparing for your DOT physical with a medical provider at United Medical:
- Wear comfortable clothes and bring eyeglasses/contact lenses and any hearing aids if you use them.
- Have a list of your current medications, as well as the name and contact number of the doctor who prescribed them.
- Complete the driver information and health history sections of the Medical Examination Report form. Do not forget to sign and date the form.
- Supply us with medical records for conditions such as diabetes, cardiac disease, sleep disorders, neurological conditions, etc. If you take medications for pain, psychiatric conditions, attention deficit disorder, or smoking cessation for example, bring a letter from your treating doctor.
DOT Physicals in NJ
Are you a commercial driver in need of a DOT physical? At United Medical, we offer quick and easy DOT physicals.
Make your appointment for a DOT physical by calling the United Medical office in New Jersey closest to you: in Lyndhurst at (201) 460-0063, in Bayonne at (201) 339-6111, or in Clifton at (973) 546-6844. You can also request an appointment now.
