The DOT physical
If you drive a commercial motor vehicle, federal rules require a medical exam — the DOT physical — to confirm you're healthy enough to drive safely. Here's exactly what it involves and how to walk in ready to pass.
What the exam covers
A certified medical examiner reviews your health history and checks the areas that matter for safe driving:
- Vision — at least 20/40 in each eye (with correction) and a 70° field of vision.
- Hearing — you must be able to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet, or pass an audiometry test.
- Blood pressure and pulse — high readings can shorten your card or require follow-up.
- Urinalysis — screens for underlying conditions such as diabetes (it is not a drug test).
- Physical exam — heart, lungs, abdomen, spine, neurological function, and limbs.
- Health history — medications, past surgeries, and conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea.
Who can perform it
Your DOT physical must be done by a medical professional on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. That can be a physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, chiropractor, or advanced practice nurse — as long as they are certified and listed on the registry. Always verify the examiner is currently listed before your appointment.
By state
The exam is federal, but where you file your medical card — and a few of the rules — depends on your state:
Frequently asked
- Who can perform a DOT physical?
- Only a medical professional listed on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners can perform your DOT physical and issue a valid medical certificate.
- How long is a DOT medical card good for?
- Up to 24 months. The examiner can issue a shorter certificate (for example, one year) if you have a condition that needs monitoring, such as high blood pressure.
- What should I bring?
- A photo ID, a list of your medications and prescribing doctors, and any medical paperwork the examiner asked for — for example, a blood pressure log, a diabetes A1C result, or a sleep apnea compliance report if those apply to you.