Commercial driving is associated with a high degree of responsibility and, sometimes, significant physical strain. Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exams are designed to help commercial drivers stay safe on the road — for their benefit and for the benefit of other drivers, too.
If you’ve never had a DOT physical, you might wonder what to expect. In this post, our team at Triad Primary Care reviews the components of a typical DOT physical, highlighting how the exam differs from the annual physicals you might be used to.
In many ways, a DOT physical is similar to an annual physical exam. The primary difference is in the type of evaluations that are and aren’t included in each exam.
In general, DOT physicals aren’t as comprehensive as regular annual physical exams. That’s because its purpose is different: While a physical exam is intended to evaluate your overall health and wellness, a DOT physical focuses on aspects of your health directly related to your job and your performance and safety on the road.
DOT exams are developed and regulated by the DOT, and they can’t be performed by any doctor — only providers recognized by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Our team has extensive experience performing DOT exams, so you can feel confident your exam and its required paperwork meet all current DOT requirements.
Like a regular annual physical, your DOT exam begins with a review of your medical history and any symptoms you may be experiencing. We’ll ask about medications you’re taking, and any aids or accommodations you use like glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids.
During your exam, we’ll measure your weight and your blood pressure and ask about:
It’s important to be completely honest about your health. Having a medical condition doesn’t mean you won’t be approved for your license — instead, it helps us ensure you receive optimal treatment to keep you safe and healthy while tending to your job duties. For some medical conditions, we can even help you apply for a medical waiver.
Next, our team assesses your reflexes, vision, and hearing, examines your throat and ears, and collects a urine sample. We may also order additional lab tests. Once we receive the results of your lab work, we complete your DOT paperwork so it’s ready to be submitted.
While not as comprehensive as a regular physical, the DOT exam still includes plenty of evaluations, and as with an annual exam, our team can provide you with guidance to improve your health and help keep you on the road.
If you’re due for a DOT exam, schedule as soon as possible to avoid delays that could interfere with your licensure. Request an appointment online or over the phone with our team in Greensboro, North Carolina, today.
