DOT Exams

DOT Exams
IN GREENVILLE, SC

Understanding DOT Physicals 

A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is a health examination mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. A DOT physical helps determine if a driver is physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to operate a CMV.
If you are a commercial driver, you are a "safety-sensitive" employee. And for your safety and the public's safety, FMCSA requires you to complete and pass a DOT physical to maintain a valid commercial driver's license (CDL).
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What To Expect During A DOT Physical 

During a DOT physical, a certified medical examiner (CME) will check your vital signs, review your medical history, and perform a required hands-on physical examination that includes (but is not limited to):
  • General Appearance
  • Eyes
  • Ears 
  • Mouth & Throat
  • Heart
  • Lungs and Chest
  • Extremities
  • Nervous System
  • Hernias
  • Back & Spine
The CME will issue you a medical examiner's certificate (MEC) - also called a DOT medical card - when you meet the DOT physical requirements. Without a valid DOT medical card, you can lose your CDL.

What To Bring To A DOT Physical Exam 

All drivers' bring a complete list of ALL of your medications, including the doses and your doctors' names and addresses
 • You may want to complete page one of the exam (driver's portion) to save time at the center Drivers who require eyeglasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids Bring your glasses, contacts, or hearing aids 
• You will be required to pass a vision and hearing test Drivers who have high blood pressure ' Your blood pressure MUST be below 140/90 on the day of your exam or you may not qualify for a DOT card Drivers who have diabetes ' Your blood sugar should be controlled 
• Bring the most recent results of a lab test called a Hemoglobin AIC (HgAlC) and your blood sugar logs or other records related to your diabetes Drivers who have nighttime sleep disturbance (sleep apnea) and use a CPAP machine ' Bring a reading from your machine documenting your proper use of the machine; a letter from your sleep specialist may also be required ' Bring at least 90 days of data, but data from the past year is best Drivers who have heart-related issues, (including the use of stent, valve replacement, pacemaker, open-heart surgery, cardiac bypass surgery, or heart attack) ' At minimum, bring a letter from your cardiologist (heart specialist) that outlines your medical history and current medications and indicates you are safe to drive a DOT vehicle You may also need to bring the results of a recent stress test, ECHO cardiogram, or other testing completed within the past 1-2 years Drivers who have suffered a stroke, a brain tumor, seizure disorder, or bleeding in the brain 
• Bring a letter from your neurologist (brain and nerve specialist) that outlines your medical history, current medications, and current neurologic and psychiatric state Drivers who have experienced the permanent loss of use in an arm or a leg ' Bring an overview from your physician of the injury and if you have any work restrictions due to the injury ' You may need a Skilled Performance Examination in order to qualify for your DOT card Drivers who are taking any medications that may cause sedation or sleepiness or controlled substances (includes narcotics, sleeping pills, anxiety medication, ADHD medication) 
• You will most likely need a note and medical records from your treating physician regarding the safety of driving a DOT vehicle while using these medications Drivers who are taking the blood thinner Coumadin (Warfarin) 
• Bring a recent INR (blood level and clearance) letter from your doctor If you are uncertain if you will qualify for a DOT card, you may want to schedule a visit with your primary or specialty physician BEFORE your re-certification date. Each physical examination, just like each DOT applicant, is unique. The above are guidelines only and not meant to be all-inclusive or as a guarantee of passing the exam. Additional testing or/information may be required by your DOT examiner.

Do I Need A DOT Physical  

You are required to complete and pass a DOT physical if you:


  • 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


Find Out How DOT Physical Can Help You

If you are applying for a commercial driving position, come to us for a DOT physical exam that is required for the CDL license. Contact Carolina Health Innovations today at 864-288-8593 to schedule an appointment.
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