The Department of Transportation (DOT) Physical is a required medical examination for individuals who operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV). This examination is mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to confirm that drivers are physically and mentally capable of safely performing their duties. The purpose is to prevent health-related impairment that could compromise public safety on the roadways. This requirement applies to anyone driving a vehicle that weighs over 10,001 pounds, transports hazardous materials, or is designed to carry more than 15 passengers.
Reviewing Medical History and Medications
The examination begins with the driver completing the health history portion of the Medical Examination Report (MER), Form MCSA-5875. This self-reported section requires the disclosure of past surgeries, chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, or neurological disorders, and any history of substance abuse. Inaccurate information can invalidate the medical certificate.
The certified medical examiner then reviews this history with the driver, discussing any “yes” answers to determine their impact on driving ability. Drivers must provide a list of all current prescription and over-the-counter medications. For certain pre-existing conditions, such as recent heart procedures or uncontrolled diabetes, the driver is often required to bring a clearance letter from their treating physician or specialist.
The Hands-On Physical Assessment
Following the historical review, the Certified Medical Examiner (CME) conducts a physical assessment of the driver’s body systems. This involves measuring vital signs, including pulse rate and blood pressure, to screen for cardiovascular issues. For full two-year certification, a driver’s blood pressure must be less than 140/90 mmHg.
Drivers presenting with Stage 1 hypertension (140–159/90–99 mmHg) may be certified for a reduced period of one year. A reading of 180/110 mmHg or higher (Stage 3) results in a temporary medical disqualification until the condition is treated and blood pressure is reduced to 140/90 mmHg or below.
The examination also includes a musculoskeletal assessment to check for deformities or limitations in the spine and extremities that could interfere with operating pedals or controlling the steering wheel. The CME checks the cardiovascular system for abnormal heart sounds and assesses the respiratory system for impaired lung function. A neurological check evaluates reflexes, coordination, and speech patterns, ensuring the central nervous system is functioning correctly.
Required Vision, Hearing, and Urinalysis Screenings
The DOT physical requires specific screening tests for vision, hearing, and urinalysis, all with strict FMCSA standards. For distant visual acuity, drivers must demonstrate at least 20/40 vision in each eye, tested separately, with or without corrective lenses. The driver’s field of vision must be at least 70 degrees in the horizontal meridian in each eye, and they must be able to recognize the standard red, green, and amber traffic signal colors.
The hearing standard can be met in one of two ways: perceiving a “forced whisper” at a distance of at least five feet, or through an audiometric test. Both tests allow for the use of a hearing aid. This ensures the driver can hear warnings and sirens necessary for safe operation.
A urinalysis is required as a medical screen, not a drug test, though a drug test may be conducted concurrently. The urine sample is analyzed for indicators of underlying medical conditions, particularly the presence of glucose or protein. High levels of glucose can signal uncontrolled diabetes, while protein in the urine may indicate kidney dysfunction.
Understanding Certification Outcomes
The outcome of the DOT physical is a certification status documented on the Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), Form MCSA-5876. A driver with no health conditions requiring monitoring is granted the maximum certification period of 24 months.
If a driver has a stable medical condition that needs periodic monitoring, such as controlled diabetes or hypertension, the CME will issue a reduced certification period. These shorter periods require the driver to return for a follow-up exam to ensure the condition remains stable and well-managed.
Conditions such as Stage 3 hypertension result in immediate, temporary disqualification. The driver cannot operate a CMV until the condition is successfully treated and they pass a subsequent examination. Upon passing, the driver must submit the MEC to their state’s licensing agency to maintain commercial driving privileges.