In the United States, 183,382 large trucks and buses were involved in crashes in 2024. These incidents caused 4,872 fatalities and 87,888 injuries.
If you’re a commercial driver, you know about the Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. This exam is a required step to make sure you’re healthy and fit to operate large vehicles safely. DOT physicals aren’t just a formality; they’re a crucial part of ensuring everyone on the road remains safe.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re up for renewal, knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make the whole process smoother. At Wake Family Medicine, we help professional drivers in our community stay safe and confident on the road. Here’s everything you need to know before your upcoming DOT physical.
A DOT physical is a medical exam required by the Department of Transportation for anyone who holds a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
The goal is to confirm that you’re physically and mentally able to drive commercial vehicles safely. This includes checking your vision, hearing, heart health, and other vital aspects of your overall well-being.
You must pass this exam to get or renew your medical certificate, which is typically valid for up to two years.
The DOT physical covers several key areas of your health:
You answer questions about past or current health problems, surgeries, medications, and lifestyle habits.
We check your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature.
You’ll need at least 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses).
You must be able to hear a “forced whisper” from a short distance.
This lab test checks for signs of medical conditions, such as diabetes, but not for the presence of drugs. However, commercial drivers need to adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules regarding drugs and alcohol.
We check your lungs, heart, spine, reflexes, and more.
To help your visit go as smoothly as possible, make sure to bring the following:
If you have a medical disorder like hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, or sleep apnea, bring proof that it’s under control. That might include a letter from your specialist or a copy of recent test results.
A little preparation can go a long way in helping you pass your exam without any issues. Here are a few tips:
Being well-rested helps regulate your blood pressure and overall alertness.
These can raise your blood pressure. Aim for a light, healthy meal the night before and the morning of your appointment.
These beverages can also spike your blood pressure.
If you skip your usual meds, especially for high blood pressure, it could affect your results.
If you don’t meet the DOT requirements, your driving career isn’t necessarily over. Sometimes, it just means you need more testing or treatment before we can clear you.
For example, if your blood pressure is slightly high, you may qualify for a temporary certificate. You then come back for a re-check after addressing the problem.
If you’re newly diagnosed with a disorder like diabetes, you may need to start treatment and return to us with proof that your condition is under control.
We’ll guide you through the next steps if something comes up during your exam.
At Wake Family Medicine, we treat drivers with the respect and care they deserve. Our experienced providers make the exam process quick, clear, and stress-free. If you have concerns about passing, we can help you prepare in advance.
Whether you’re new to commercial driving or just renewing your medical certificate, we help you stay compliant and confident behind the wheel. Call Wake Family Medicine today or use the online booking form to schedule your exam and keep your career moving forward.
