DOT Physicals (Commercial Driver Medical Exams) – Frequently Asked Questions

Note: we are closed June 8th – June 12th. We will be back in the office June 15th.

What is a DOT physical?

A DOT physical is a medical examination required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to ensure commercial drivers are physically qualified to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.

Who needs a DOT physical?

You may need a DOT physical if you:

Operate a commercial vehicle weighing 10,001 pounds or more
Transport hazardous materials requiring placards
Drive a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers
Operate a commercial vehicle across state lines

If you are unsure whether you need a DOT physical, contact our office and we can help determine your requirements.

How much does a DOT physical cost?

Our current DOT physical fee is $99.

Additional testing or documentation requirements may result in additional fees.

How long does a DOT physical take?

Most DOT physical appointments take approximately 20–30 minutes.

Do I need an appointment?

Appointments are recommended, but same-day appointments may be available. Call our office to check availability.

What should I bring to my DOT physical?

Please bring:

A valid driver’s license
A list of current medications
Glasses or contact lenses if you wear them while driving
Hearing aids if applicable
Any required medical documentation from your treating physician

What if I have high blood pressure?

Drivers with high blood pressure may still qualify for certification. Certification length depends on blood pressure readings and FMCSA guidelines.

What if I have diabetes?

Drivers with diabetes can often qualify for DOT certification. You may need to provide additional documentation regarding your treatment and blood sugar control.

If you use insulin, please bring any required FMCSA documentation.

What if I use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea?

Drivers with sleep apnea can often maintain certification if they demonstrate compliance with CPAP treatment.

Please bring:

CPAP compliance reports
Sleep study results if available

What vision requirements must I meet?

DOT drivers must meet FMCSA vision standards. If you wear corrective lenses, bring them to your appointment.

What hearing requirements must I meet?

DOT drivers must meet FMCSA hearing standards. If you wear hearing aids, bring them to your appointment.

Will a urine test be performed?

Yes. A urine sample is typically collected during a DOT physical to screen for certain medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disorders.

The DOT physical urine test is NOT a drug test.

Is the DOT physical the same as a DOT drug test?

No.

A DOT physical evaluates your medical fitness to drive.

A DOT drug test screens for prohibited substances and is a separate service.

How long is a DOT medical certificate valid?

Most drivers receive certification for up to 24 months.

Some medical conditions may require a shorter certification period.

What happens if I do not pass my DOT physical?

In many situations, drivers can obtain additional medical documentation or treatment and return for reevaluation.

Our goal is to help drivers understand FMCSA requirements and navigate the certification process whenever possible.

Do you perform DOT drug tests?

No, we do not perform drug tests at either of our locations.

Do you perform SAP evaluations?

No.

What are your DOT physical office hours?

DOT physicals are available during regular office hours. Call (562) 907-7700 to schedule an appointment.

Why choose Back Body Mind Chiropractic for your DOT physical?

Dr. Lisa Thomson is a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) and has extensive experience performing DOT physical examinations for commercial drivers.

DOT Physicals