Winston Salem, NC

What Is A DOT Physical?

A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is a health examination mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for the drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). A DOT physical is used to determine whether a driver is physically, emotionally, and mentally fit to operate a commercial vehicle.

Why Is A DOT Physical Needed?

Drivers in North Carolina require a DOT physical if they:

– Operate a motor vehicle designed to carry over 15 passengers, such as a bus

– Drive a commercial vehicle that carries more than 8 passengers and crosses state lines

– Transport hazardous materials in certain quantities

– Operate a vehicle weighing over 10,000 pounds and crosses state lines

 

What Should You Bring to a DOT Physical Exam?

It is important to bring the following when going to a DOT physical:

– A picture ID (passport, driver’s license)

– Medical certificate (current) If needed

– Corrective lenses (glasses) if needed

– List of all medications you are currently taking, including dosages, and the name and contact details of the prescribing doctor.

– A letter from the doctor stating that the current treatment is effective and safe and doesn’t interfere with the ability to drive.

– A list of chronic conditions that have medical clearance from a medical professional, which includes the following conditions: diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, sleep apnea, heart conditions, history of blood clots, recent surgeries, etc.

What Does a DOT Physical Exam Entail?

A DOT physical exam consists of 5 main parts:

I. Vision: Drivers must have at least 20/40 acuity in each of your eyes with or without correction and at least 70 degrees peripheral vision.

II. Hearing: Drivers must be able to perceive what’s referred to as a forced whisper in the ear with better hearing at no less than 5 feet with or without the use of a hearing aid.

III. Pulse Rate/Blood Pressure: The driver’s blood pressure is usually taken to check for signs of high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or other medical conditions.

IV. Urinalysis: The DOT requires a urinalysis that checks for signs of any underlying medical issues, such as kidney problems.

V. Physical Examination: The physical examination covers a wide range of categories, which include:

– Neurological health

– Spine

– Genito-urinary

– Viscera and Abdomen

– Mouth and Throat

– Ears

– Eyes

– Vascular

– Heart

– Extremities

– Chest and Lungs

– General Appearance.

 

What Are Some Disqualifying Medical Conditions?

The DOT physical exam covers a lot and not everyone can pass on their first try. There are numerous reasons why you may fail the DOT exam. While some of the things are within your control, others aren’t. Here are some of the disqualifying medical conditions:

– A Nervous or Psychiatric Disease

– Poor Hearing or Eyesight

– Diabetes

– Respiratory or Cardiovascular Disease

– Missing Extremities

– Drug Use or Alcoholism

– Epilepsy

– High Blood Pressure

 

What Can You Expect During the DOT Physical Exam?

The DOT physical examination is a simple 3-step process that involves the following:

Step 1: Medical History

You will be required to fill out a brief 1-page medical history that details any diseases that run in your family, past illnesses, as well as your overall health. The medical history is aimed at providing an idea of your general health and family background.

Step 2: The Examination

The information that you have provided in your medical history will be reviewed by our team who will also go over medical conditions that you may be suffering from and perform a urinalysis test. The exam will also involve the following:

– Weighing you

– Measuring Your Height

– Checking Your Breathing

– Examining Your Ears and Eyes

– Testing Your Range of Motion

– Taking Your Blood Pressure and Pulse

Step 3: Paperwork

Our team will then fill out all the paperwork needed to process the exam results once you have completed your medical history and physical examination. You will receive a copy of the exam to take with you when you get your CDL and another copy to give to your employer. We will also keep a copy of your exam at our office.

Once all the paperwork is processed, you will be issued with your own DOT medical card that you should always keep with you when you are driving.

 

How Often Should You Get a DOT Physical?

Commercial drivers in North Carolina are required to take the DOT physical examination every 2 years. If you have a pre-existing medical condition that requires monitoring, such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, you may have to get a DOT physical more often.

 

What Happens If You Fail the DOT Physical?

If you fail the DOT physical, this is hardly ever the end of your driving career. In most instances, it means that you should work with your doctor to improve your health and make some lifestyle changes so that you can safely get back on the road.

 

Need a DOT/CDL Physical in Winston-Salem NC?

If you require a DOT physical in Winston-Salem North Carolina, Stoetzel Chiropractic can help. We are a certified examiner for DOT/CDL exams for commercial driver’s licenses and can help you get back on the road. Call us today to book an appointment for your DOT physical!