This page contains the information for what your DOT (Department of Transportation) physical will cover so you can know more about the process.
You may be asking “Why is a physical required to become a truck driver?” The answer is this, the FMCSA or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates and provides oversight of Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV) and their drivers. The goal of the FMCSA is to reduce collisions, injuries and fatalities for commercially regulated vehicles. By requiring commercial drivers to maintain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certification, which is more commonly known as a DOT physical. The physical completed by a Certified Medical Examiner which we will direct you to. This ensures that the driver meets DOT physical qualifications to operate a commercial vehicle.
The physical examination includes a test of vision, blood rate, urinalysis, hearing and blood pressure.
Some conditions may require additional information for the medical examiner such as:
- Heart Conditions – Bring any documentation as you have. A cardiologist’s letter may be required which includes a “safe to work” authorization as well as, medical history and a list of current medications.
- Diabetes – Bring most recently taken lab results with blood sugar and Hemoglobin A1C
- Vision or Hearing Impairment – Bring eyeglasses, contact lenses or hearing aids when applicable.
