How to Submit Your DOT Physical Exam Card to the NC DMV

Sofia Buchman

How to Submit Your DOT Physical Exam Card to the NC DMV: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Submit Your DOT Physical Exam Card to the NC DMV

For commercial drivers in North Carolina, passing the DOT physical is just the first step. The next crucial step is submitting your DOT medical examiner’s certificate to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to successfully complete this process.

Understanding the Submission Process

After receiving your DOT medical examiner’s certificate, it’s essential to submit it to the NCDMV to maintain your certified medical status. There are multiple ways to do this:

  1. Visit a Driver License Office: You can hand-deliver your DOT exam card to any local driver license office.
  2. Email: Send a scanned copy of your certificate to CDLmedical@ncdot.gov.
  3. Mail: Post your certificate to the CDL Medical Certification Unit at the NCDMV. The address is 3126 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-3126​​​​​​​​​​.
  4. Fax: You can also contact the Mail Service Center by fax at (919) 861-3915.

Timeliness is Key

It’s imperative to submit your DOT medical examiner’s certificate within the timeframe specified by the NCDMV. Delay in submission can affect your medical certification status and subsequently your ability to legally operate a commercial vehicle.

Preparing for the DOT Physical: The First Step

Before you can submit your DOT exam card, you need to pass the DOT physical. This comprehensive exam ensures your physical and mental fitness to operate commercial vehicles. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

  • Gather Medical Records: Bring all relevant medical documentation, including a list of current medications​​.
  • Understand the Exam Components: Familiarize yourself with the aspects the DOT physical covers, including vision and hearing tests, blood pressure measurement, and urine testing for health indicators​​.
  • Know What to Expect: Read about the importance of the DOT physical examination in the journey of a commercial driver​​​​.

For further details on preparing for your DOT medical exam, visit Preparing for Your DOT Medical Exam.

Cost Considerations

The cost of the DOT physical can vary. In Charlotte, NC, the prices range from $50 to $140, with the current pricing for us at $70.00. Knowing the cost beforehand can help you plan accordingly. For more information, visit How Much Does the DOT Physical Exam Cost?​​.

Navigating the DOT Physical: Ensuring Successful Submission

Passing the DOT physical is a prerequisite for submitting your DOT exam card. Here’s how to ensure your success:

Comprehensive Health Review

  1. Medical History: A detailed review of your health history is a significant part of the DOT physical​​.
  2. Assessment of Key Health Indicators: Special attention is given to conditions like high blood pressure and sleep apnea, which can greatly impact driving safety​​.

During the Exam

  • Vision and Hearing Tests: These tests ensure you can safely navigate the roads​​.
  • Thorough Physical Examination: A complete physical examination is conducted to assess your overall health and fitness​​.

Why Timely Submission Matters

The importance of submitting your DOT exam card to the NC DMV on time cannot be overstated. Delayed submission can lead to the suspension of your medical certification status, affecting your legal ability to operate a commercial vehicle. To find a DOT physical provider near you, visit DOT Physical Near Me.

The Certified Medical Examiners

At Charlotte DOT Exam Center, we take pride in the exceptional qualifications and dedication of our medical team. All of our doctors are certified medical examiners, accredited by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This certification is a testament to their comprehensive understanding of the regulations and health standards required for commercial drivers. Our team’s expertise is not just in conducting thorough and precise DOT physical exams but also in ensuring that each driver meets the essential health requirements for safe driving.

With a combined experience of over 60 years in practice, our medical professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to the wellbeing of commercial drivers. Their extensive experience means that they are not just examiners but also advisors who understand the nuances and challenges faced by drivers in maintaining their health and fitness for the road. At our center, you can be confident that you are receiving the highest standard of care and assessment, ensuring that your DOT medical certification is in capable hands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How can I submit my DOT exam card to the NC DMV?

A1: You have four options for submitting your DOT exam card to the NC DMV:

  • In-Person: Visit a local driver license office.
  • Email: Send a scanned copy of your certificate to CDLmedical@ncdot.gov.
  • Mail: Post your certificate to the CDL Medical Certification Unit, 3126 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-3126​​​​​​​​​​.
  • FAX: You can also contact the Mail Service Center by fax at (919) 861-3915.

Q2: What is the importance of submitting the DOT exam card on time?

A2: Timely submission of your DOT exam card is crucial as it affects your medical certification status. Delayed submission can result in the suspension of your certification, impacting your legal ability to operate a commercial vehicle​​.

Q3: What are the key aspects to prepare for a DOT physical?

A3: To prepare for a DOT physical, consider the following:

  • Gather Medical Records: Have all relevant medical documentation, including a list of current medications​​.
  • Understand Exam Components: Familiarize yourself with the DOT physical elements, such as vision and hearing tests, blood pressure measurement, and a urine test for health indicators​​.
  • Check Preparation Resources: Visit links like Preparing for Your DOT Medical Exam for detailed guidance.

Q4: What should I do if I lose my DOT exam card before submitting it to the DMV?

A4: If you lose your DOT exam card, contact the medical examiner who conducted your DOT physical to obtain a duplicate. It’s crucial to keep a copy for your records as well.

Q5: How can I check if my DOT exam card was successfully received and processed by the NC DMV?

A5: After submitting your DOT exam card, you can contact the NC DMV directly to confirm receipt and processing. It’s advisable to keep a record of your submission, such as email confirmations or postal receipts.

Q6: Are there any penalties for late submission of the DOT exam card to the NC DMV?

A6: Late submission of the DOT exam card may result in a temporary suspension of your certified medical status, affecting your legal ability to operate a commercial vehicle. It’s important to submit the card within the specified timeframe.

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Understanding DOT Physical Near Me: A Comprehensive Guide

Sofia Buchman

Introduction to DOT Physicals DOT physical near me

If you’re a commercial motor vehicle, commercial driver’s license, or someone looking to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you’re likely familiar with the term “DOT physical.” Required by the Department of Transportation, these physical exams are a critical step in ensuring that drivers are physically and mentally capable of safely operating a commercial motor vehicle. In this guide, we’ll delve into what a DOT physical entails, its requirements, and how to prepare for one. For those in need of a DOT physical near you, remember to call 704-544-3494 for an available appointment.

What is a DOT Physical?

A DOT physical is a specific type of physical examination mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for commercial drivers. It assesses a driver’s health and fitness to safely operate a commercial vehicle. This exam is not just a standard physical exam; it’s designed to provide medical exams to ensure drivers can meet the demanding requirements of the road, especially when operating large vehicles or transporting hazardous materials.

Key Components of the Exam

  1. Medical History Review: The medical examiner will review your health history. This includes past and current medical conditions, surgeries, medications, and any history of illness or injury that might affect your driving ability.
  2. Thorough Physical Examination: The physical exam covers various health aspects, including vision and hearing tests, blood pressure measurement, and an assessment of your overall physical condition.
  3. Special Focus on High Blood Pressure and Sleep Apnea: Given their impact on driving safety, conditions like high blood pressure and sleep apnea receive special attention. Drivers with these conditions may still qualify to drive but might need to provide additional medical documentation or adhere to specific treatment plans.
  4. Urine Test: This test is not for drug screening but to check for underlying medical conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes.

Duration of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate

Upon passing the DOT physical, drivers receive a medical examiner’s certificate, which is valid for up to 24 months. However, if a medical condition requires monitoring (like elevated blood pressure), the medical examiner finds certificate may be issued for a shorter period.

Preparing for Your DOT Physical

Before the Exam

  • Gather Medical Records: Bring a complete list of your current medications, including prescribed medication, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.
  • Health History: Prepare details about your health history, including any surgeries, hospitalizations, or ongoing treatments.
  • Sleep Apnea and CPAP Machine: If you have sleep apnea and use a CPAP machine, bring usage data to demonstrate compliance.

During the Exam

  • Be Honest with the Examiner: Accurate information helps the medical examiner make informed decisions about your fitness to drive.
  • Physical Exam Components: Expect tests related to vision, hearing, blood pressure, and an overall physical assessment.

DOT Physical Requirements and Regulations

FMCSA Guidelines

The FMCSA sets specific guidelines for what constitutes a passing and need a DOT physical. These include vision and hearing standards, blood pressure limits, and absence of any disqualifying medical condition.

CDL and DOT Health Card

For those seeking a commercial driver’s license, passing the full DOT physical exam is a prerequisite. Upon passing dot exam, drivers are issued a DOT medical card, proof of their medical fitness to operate a commercial vehicle.

Certified Medical Examiners

Only certified medical examiners registered on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners are authorized to perform DOT physicals. This ensures that the examiners understand the FMCSA standards for medical exams and can accurately assess a driver’s health.

Who Does Not Need A FMCSA Medical Card

The following drivers in interstate transportation are not required to have a medical examiners certificate. School bus drivers who transport children or staff between home and school. Federal, state, or local government employees, transporting human corpses or sick or injured persons, firetruck rescue vehicles during emergencies or other related activities, transportation of propane winter heating fuel when responding to an emergency condition requiring an immediate response such as damage to a propane gas system after a storm or flooding, a response to a pipeline emergency condition requiring immediate response such as a pipeline leak or rupture.

Drivers in custom harvesting on a farm or to transport farm machinery and supplies used in harvesting operations and transportation of harvested crops to storage or to market. Also, the transportation of agricultural products, farm machinery or farm supplies that are non-hazardous materials to and from a farm and within 150 air miles from the farm. Beekeepers in the seasonal transportation of bee. A private motor carrier of passengers for non-business purposes or to transport migrant workers. If one of the above activities is only operation in which they drive, they operate in excepted interstate commerce and are not required to have a medical certificate.

Conclusion

The DOT physical is a vital part of ensuring the safety of commercial vehicle operators and the public. By thoroughly preparing and understanding what to expect, you can approach your next DOT physical appointment with confidence. Remember, for scheduling your DOT physical appointment near you, call 704-544-3494.

Navigating State-Specific DOT Physicals

DOT Physicals Across Different States

While the fundamental requirements for DOT physicals are federally mandated, there are state-specific nuances, especially when it comes to cost, availability, and certain health requirements. This section will focus on the specifics in states like North Carolina and Texas, providing insights into what commercial drivers can expect.

DOT Physicals in North Carolina

  • State Requirements: North Carolina adheres to FMCSA guidelines but also incorporates state-specific regulations, especially for drivers handling hazardous materials.
  • Obtaining a DOT Medical Card: In North Carolina, after successfully completing the DOT physical, drivers receive a DOT medical card, a crucial document for CDL holders.

The Texas Perspective

  • Commercial Driver Requirements: Texas, similar to North Carolina, follows federal guidelines but with additional emphasis on conditions like heat exposure and long-distance driving.
  • Cost Considerations: The cost of DOT physicals in Texas may vary based on location and the medical facility.

Key Aspects of DOT Physicals

Medical Conditions and Assessments

  • Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Health: Given the stress of driving, managing high blood pressure is crucial for DOT certification.
  • Respiratory Conditions: Conditions like sleep apnea are carefully evaluated, considering the risks associated with drowsy driving.

The Role of Certified Medical Examiners

  • National Registry: Examiners must be listed on the FMCSA registry to ensure they meet the standards for conducting DOT physicals.
  • Consistency in Exams: This registry ensures that regardless of the state, the DOT physicals are performed consistently and to the same standards.

Urine Tests and Health Screening

  • Purpose: The urine test is primarily for checking indicators of underlying health issues rather than drug testing.
  • Kidney Function and More: This test can reveal conditions like kidney disease, which can impact a driver’s ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle.

Preparing for a DOT Physical

Essential Steps for Preparation

  • Complete Medication List: Bring a list of all medications, including those for blood pressure, sleep disorder treatment, or any other condition.
  • Medical History: A detailed health history helps the examiner make an informed decision.

During the Exam

  • Hearing and Vision Tests: These are essential components of the physical exam, ensuring drivers can safely navigate the roads.
  • Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam is conducted to assess overall health and fitness for duty.

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances of the DOT health card and physicals in different states is vital for commercial drivers. By being well-prepared and informed, drivers can ensure a smooth process in obtaining their DOT medical card. For assistance or to schedule a DOT physical, remember to call 704-544-3494.

Frequently Asked Questions About DOT Physical Near Me

Understanding the Essentials of DOT Physicals

Navigating the requirements and processes of DOT physicals can be challenging. To assist, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to provide clarity and guidance.

How Much Does the DOT Physical Cost in Charlotte, NC?

The cost of a DOT physical in Charlotte, North Carolina, can vary depending on the medical facility and specific services required. Generally, prices range from $50 to $100. It’s advisable to contact local clinics for the most accurate pricing.

Our current pricing effective January 1, 2024 is $70.00 and our certified physicians perform DOT physicals and offer DOT physicals Monday through Saturday.

How Do I Get a DOT Medical Card in NC?

To obtain a DOT medical card in North Carolina, you must pass the DOT physical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner. Once you pass the thorough physical exam, the examiner will provide you with a DOT medical card, which is proof of your medical fitness to operate a commercial vehicle.

What Does a DOT Physical Consist of in North Carolina?

A DOT physical in North Carolina involves a comprehensive health assessment, including reviewing your medical health history, a thorough physical examination, vision and hearing tests, blood pressure measurement, and a urine test for kidney function and other health indicators.

How Much Does a DOT Physical Cost in Texas?

Similar to North Carolina, the cost of a DOT physical in Texas varies. It typically ranges between $60 and $120. Prices can differ based on location and the specific services provided by the clinic.

What is Required for a DOT Physical in North Carolina?

Requirements for a DOT physical in North Carolina include a detailed medical health history review, a thorough physical examination, vision and hearing tests, blood pressure check, and a urine test. The medical examiner finds and will also evaluate for any signs of conditions like sleep apnea, diabetes, and heart disease.

What Do They Test in Urine for a DOT Physical?

The urine test in a DOT physical checks urine sample for signs of underlying health issues, such as kidney disorders, diabetes, and other conditions that might affect a driver’s ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. It is not a drug test.

What Does the DOT Physical Exam Stand For?

The DOT physical exam stands for the Department of Transportation physical examination. It is a federally mandated health examination to ensure that commercial vehicle drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely.

Conclusion

DOT physicals are a critical aspect of maintaining road safety and ensuring the well-being federal motor carrier safety and optimal health of commercial drivers. For those in need of a DOT and searching for “DOT physical near me”, remember to call 704-544-3494 for an available appointment.

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Preparing For Your DOT Exam

Sofia Buchman

Preparing For Your DOT Medical Exam

The launch of the DOT’s National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) program has ushered in a new era of driver and employer responsibility in regard to understanding the DOT medical examination process. The NRCME program aims to elevate the DOT medical exam to its originally intended level of scrutiny that can ensure safer drivers and safer roads across the country. By requiring certification of all medical examiners, the DOT made an obvious statement about quality and their continued efforts to eliminate “doctor shopping” by drivers, the practice of visiting provider after provider until someone finally issues a medical card, whether it is warranted or not.

Certain conditions have always led to shorter card terms or disqualification, and the new certification program has brought these to the forefront for many examiners who either never knew the regulations or never paid close enough attention to allow the regulations to guide their decision making. Hopefully, medical examiners across the country will be holding drivers to a more consistent standard when issuing cards.

In preparation, drivers and employers should pay particular attention to the conditions below that may exclude drivers from certification or require intermittent medical monitoring. Assembling the necessary documentation in advance of the exam can save drivers and employers considerable time and money.

These are the most common health problems associated with DOT medical certification or recertification that require documentation during the DOT exam to help expedite certification. Please have your treating physician fill out this form prior to your exam. Failure to do so will delay your receiving your health card.

History of Asthma / COPD

If you have a history of lung disease (asthma or COPD) or have symptoms of shortness of breath, cough, chest tightness, wheezing, or drivers over the age of 35 who smoke, you will need spirometry. You can arrange to have this done at your doctor’s office or occupational medicine clinic.

Sleep Apnea

  • A letter from the doctor treating for the sleep apnea stating that your current CPAP treatment is effectively controlling your sleep apnea
  • Documentation that verifies your equipment (CPAP machine) is operating effectively and shows that you are compliant with the use of the CPAP (smart card printout)

Diabetes

  • A letter from the doctor treating you for the diabetes stating you are being treated for diabetes is required. A list of the medications you are taking and that the medications are tolerated and would not interfere with the ability to drive must also be provided. The frequency of your glucose control and efficacy of treatment monitoring must be documented, along with verification that you have had no severe hypoglycemic reactions in the last 12 months. The date and results of your last hemoglobin A1C level must be provided. Any complications from diabetes (example: renal, cardiovascular or neurological concerns) must be documented.

Effective November 19 2018 a diabetic on insulin is no longer required to have a diabetic waiver. However, the driver on insulin must present a ITDM Assessment Form from the drivers treating physician stating that the driver maintains a stable insulin regiment and proper control of his or hers diabetes.

Drivers with an ITDM will be required to provide their treating physician with at least three (3) months of blood glucose monitoring records and may be certified up to one year. If the driver does not have three months of records, he may receive up to a three month certificate until the driver has three months of records.

If a diabetic driver has a severe hypoglycemic event, he or she is not allowed to drive and must report to the treating physician for evaluation as soon as possible. The driver will be prohibited to drive until the treating physician determines that driver is once again stable and properly controlled. The final rule defines “severe hypoglycemic event” as one requiring the assistance from others or resulting in loss of consciousness, seizure or coma.

  • A letter from your eye doctor or the doctor treating you for your diabetes must state the date of your last eye exam and that there is no retinopathy. Unstable proliferative or unstable nonproliferative retinopathy is disqualifying.
  • If you are on incretin mimetic treatment, such as Byetta (exenatide) or Bydureon (exenatide extended-release), a letter from your doctor prescribing this medication describing your tolerance to the medication is required. How frequently you are monitored for adequate blood glucose control and efficacy of treatment must also be documented.

Cardiovascular Disease

  • History of heart attack, angina, or post-PCI: You will need a letter from your cardiologist stating that you are cleared to drive a commercial motor vehicle with no restrictions. DOT requires an exercise stress test every 2 years. You will need to bring a copy of the stress test results to your exam. If the above has occurred in the past year, a copy of the most recent Echocardiogram is also required.
  • History of cardiac bypass surgery: A letter is required from you cardiologist stating that you are cleared to drive a commercial motor vehicle with no restrictions. After 5 years from the date of surgery you will need a yearly exercise stress test. Please bring the stress test results to the DOT exam. If the bypass surgery is within the past year, a copy of your most recent echocardiogram will be required.

Anticoagulant Therapy

If you are taking warfarin for cardiovascular disease, please bring a copy of the most recent INR results to your DOT exam.

Anticonvulsant Medication

If you a taking topamax, neurontin (gabapentin), or other seizure medication for other than a seizure disorder (example: chronic pain or migraine prophylaxis), bring a letter from the doctor prescribing the medication stating that the medication is not being prescribed for seizure. Also, if you are experiencing side effects, the letter must state that the side effects would not interfere with driving a commercial motor vehicle.

Histories Requiring Limited Certification (one year or less):

Medications Requiring Limited Certification (one year or less):

  • Lithium
  • Byetta
  • Provigil
  • Warfarin (cardiovascular disease)
  • Antidepressants: Pristiq, Cymbalta, Effexor, Effexor XR, Celexa, Lexapro, Prozac, Prozac Weekly, Sarafem, Paxil, Paxil CR, Zoloft
  • Antipsychotics: Abilify, Abilify Discmelt, Saphris, Zyprexa, Zyprexa Zydis, Seroquel, Seroquel XR, Risperdal, Risperdal M-Tabs, Geodon, Symbyax, Nardil, ESAM, Parnate

Note: The medications listed above require a safety letter from the driver’s Primary Medical Provider indicating the prescribed medication is tolerated and no side effects interfere with driving a commercial motor vehicle.

Other Medications

If you are taking any of the following prescription medications, bring the actual prescription bottles with you to your DOT exam: Ambien (zolpidem), anxiolytics such as Alprazolam, lorazepam, Xanax, and pain medications such as hydrocodone/APAP, Vicodin, tramadol, or oxycodone. These medications will require the prescribing physician to sign off on the medication and you can download the form here PRIOR to your visit and bring the completed form to your exam so there will be no delay in obtaining your DOT health card.

Source: Eastern Medical Support, LLC. • Amsterdam, NY

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DOT Physical Examination – An Important Test To Operate Commercial Vehicles

Sofia Buchman

What exactly is a DOT physical examination? Is it something like the PLAID physical examination or a STRIPE physical examination? Well, No. DOT stands for the Department Of Transportation. Commercial drivers, such drivers of trucks or buses, are required to undergo a DOT physical exam to receive a special license to operate the vehicle.

What exactly is the DOT physical examination?

If you are a commercial driver, then you might have been asked to get a DOT physical exam done. Strictly mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the DOT physical checkup will give you clearance for driving commercial vehicles. It also helps make sure that you and other professional commercial drivers can handle long hours of driving, the miscellaneous schedules as well as the stress of operating the commercial vehicles.

The FMCSA requires all the commercial drivers to receive a certificate of good health, which you will get only after passing the DOT physical exam. So those drivers who are listed on the registry, have undergone the right training as per FMCSA regulations and have the right to know if they are healthy enough to operate safely and make sure that they are not wrongly disqualified.

A DOT physical might sound like overwhelming processing owing to the strict guidelines and regulations set by the FMCSA for it. So, to make it a simplified process, below is a brief overview of the DOT physical.

Do you need a DOT physical exam?

Yes, you are required to get a DOT physical examination if you fall into one of the below-mentioned categories:

  • If you operate a vehicle used for commercial purposes and that has a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating or a combination weight rating of more than ten thousand pounds.
  • If you operate a vehicle that is designed to transport more than eight people.
  • If you are who operate a vehicle that is used to transport hazardous materials.
  • Take your test at our facility which is a great place and is a top DOT physical locations in Charlotte NC .

What exactly is a DOT physical examination? Is it something like the PLAID physical examination or a STRIPE physical examination? Well, No. DOT stands for the Department Of Transportation. Commercial drivers, such drivers of trucks or buses, are required to undergo a DOT physical exam to receive a special license to operate the vehicle.

What exactly is the DOT physical exam?

If you are a commercial driver, then you might have been asked to get a DOT physical exam done. Strictly mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the DOT physical checkup will give you clearance for driving commercial vehicles. It also helps make sure that you and other professional commercial drivers can handle long hours of driving, the miscellaneous schedules as well as the stress of operating the commercial vehicles.

The FMCSA requires all the commercial drivers to receive a certificate of good health, which you will get only after passing the DOT physical exam. So those drivers who are listed on the registry, have undergone the right training as per FMCSA regulations and have the right to know if they are healthy enough to operate safely and make sure that they are not wrongly disqualified.

A DOT physical might sound like overwhelming processing owing to the strict guidelines and regulations set by the FMCSA for it. So, to make it a simplified process, below is a brief overview of the DOT physical.

Do you need a DOT physical exam?

Yes, you are required to get a DOT physical examination if you fall into one of the below-mentioned categories:

  • If you operate a vehicle used for commercial purposes and that has a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating or a combination weight rating of more than ten thousand pounds.
  • If you operate a vehicle that is designed to transport more than eight people.
  • If you are who operate a vehicle that is used to transport hazardous materials.
  • Take your exam in our facility which is one of the top rated DOT physical locations in Charlotte NC .
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How Much Does The DOT Physical Exam Cost?

Sofia Buchman

Dot Physical Exam CostIn the modern economy, this is on the forefront of every person’s mind. Does your existing medical insurance cover a DOT exam? Usually, the insurance does not cover such appointments.

Your employer may cover the cost of the exam. If neither your insurance nor your employer cover the cost of the exam, the cost of the exam may be a job related expense and therefore a tax deduction. (Please consult with your tax prepared for details.)

At The Charlotte DOT Exam Center we charge $70.00 for the exam.

Drug testing is available for the charge of $90.00.

What should you bring to a DOT Physical?

You are required to provide a complete list of the medication, which includes the medicine doses and the names and addresses of the doctors. To avoid having an incomplete examination it is recommended that you make a list of all medications prior to your appointment. If you are being treated for a medical condition, please have your treating physician fill out this form prior to your exam. Failure to do so will delay your receiving your health card.

To ensure that the DOT exam runs satisfactorily and steadily, you should carry appropriate items or documents if you have any specific medical problems. For instance,

  • If you have a certain kind of problem in your hearing or vision, then you should carry hearing aids, contact lens, eyeglasses with to you the clinic.
  • If you have diabetes, then you are required to bring the most recent lab test results (a1c) as well as the blood sugar logs.
  • If you have any heart-related issue, then you are required to get a letter from your cardiologist that reflects the medical history as well as the present medications, and shows that you are safe to work.
  • If you have any kidney disease, digestive issues or any chronic pain or any other health related issues, please bring a letter from the treating physician explaining the issue, the treatment and your compliance and how well you are tolerating the treatment.

It is critically important, to be honest, and share details of your prior or current health conditions. If you fail to do so, then you may have your certificate revoked.

What the DOT Physical Exam Covers?

The DOT physical exam checks a driver’s health and body for any kind of abnormalities in the below-mentioned areas like:

        How Much Does The Dot Physical Exam Cost

  • Overall appearance:

The doctor/medical examiner who will be conducting the DOT physical and examining you at the clinic will check to determine whether you are overweight and have any other obvious health issues like tremors, shaking, excessive, etc.

  • Eyes:

Your eyes will be checked to see if they have proper dilation, movement or any structural problems. Moreover, the doctor will also check your overall vision. You need to have at least 20/40 vision in each of your eyes, with/without correction, at least 70” field of vision in the Horizontal meridian in each of your eyes. You are also required to have the ability to recognize the colors displayed by traffic signals- i.e., standard green, red, and yellow’ as well as other devices.

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DOT Physical Exam Covers

Sofia Buchman

Here Is What A DOT Physical Exam Covers

  • Ears:How Much Does The Dot Physical Exam Cost1

The doctor will check for any kind of blockage and structural abnormalities, like any holes present in the eardrum. You are required to have ‘forced whisper’ ranging at a distance of five feet or more, with/without any hearing aid. Plus, you should not have more than 40 dB of hearing loss, with/without any hearing aid.

You will be checked for breathing or swallowing problems or any other kind of throat or mouth problems, which typically will deal with sleep apnea.

The doctor will check your heart for any erratic beating, murmurs, or any other unusual sounds. You will be questioned to know if have a pacemaker or other device installed in the heart.

The doctor will check your blood pressure as well as the pulse rate to know if you have high blood pressure as well as irregular heartbeats.

The DOT exam medical examiner will listen as well as watch the breathing pattern you have. If he/she suspects any issues they might have to get a chest x-ray done.

If you snore or are using a CPAP machine, make sure to bring in your CPAP report so that your exam may be completed without you having to return. Without the report, your exam will be pended until the report is presented to the examiner.

Your vision will be tested and will need to be no worse than 20/40 in either eye or in both. If your vision is worse than 20/40, you need to be evaluated and fitted for corrective lenses.

  • Urinalysis:

A urinalysis is needed for drug screen and glucose levels. Additionally, this test helps to know if you have any underlying medical conditions like diabetes. If you are a diabetic, please bring in your most recent A1C which should be 8% or below. Higher numbers or insulin dependent diabetics may be disqualified without a diabetic waiver.

DOT Physical Exam Covers

  • Abdomen and Organs:

The doctor will check for any masses or enlargements, odd tenderness upon palpitation, or any strange sounds.

  • Vascular (blood movement):

Again, your blood flow and pulse will be examined at several points in your body to check if you have the varicose veins.

  • Extremities or Limbs:

charlottedotexamThe doctor will check if you have any missing limbs. He or she will also check for lack of strength, any weakness, and the range of movement in your limbs and extremities.

  • Neurological:

You will be checked for your stability, balance, mental clarity, reflexes, and your speech coordination.

  • Spine/Skeletal:

The doctor will check your spine to check if there are any unusual or crooked areas or any weakness.

If you are being treated for a medical condition, please have your treating physician fill out this form prior to your exam. Failure to do so will delay your receiving your health card.

How often do you need the exam?

Generally, the physical examination is good for two years. However, if you have chronic diseases and other specialty health conditions, then you may have to be tested more often than that. The doctor conducting the DOT physical will have that information. The doctor will also have the necessary paperwork which you need to submit to the Department of Motor Vehicles to be issued the DOT license you are looking for.

What if you fail the test?

Failing the test does not necessarily mean that you are prohibited from becoming a driver. You should ask the doctor about the reason why you failed and improve the disqualifying health condition with treatment if possible and then try again. Retake the exam, our facility is a great place and is a top DOT physical locations in Charlotte NC .

The DOT physical examination accesses your general health and your emotional and mental fitness for meeting the demands of professional driving. It is primarily easy, fast and painless. Come in, listen to the simple instructions given to you by the doctor, and you will be out of the clinic in no time having the proper certification completed.

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