DOT Physical by Driver Type | CDL Medical Exams Charlotte NC

DOT Physical Exams by Driver Type in Charlotte, NC

Charlotte DOT Exam Center provides DOT physical examinations for all commercial driver types at one flat rate: $70. Whether you operate an 18-wheeler across the country or deliver packages throughout Charlotte, our FMCSA-certified medical examiners ensure you meet federal health and safety standards to keep your career moving.

Our doctors—Dr. Alan M. Tebby (40+ years experience) and Dr. Lemuel P. Byrd, Jr. (44+ years experience)—have performed thousands of DOT physicals for CDL and non-CDL commercial drivers throughout the Charlotte region. We understand that different driver types face unique scheduling challenges, which is why we offer walk-in appointments and same-day certification.

Which Commercial Drivers Need a DOT Physical?

Federal law requires DOT physical certification for drivers operating vehicles that meet specific criteria established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You need a DOT physical if you drive:

• Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 10,001 pounds
• Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver)
• Vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring placards
• Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) over 26,001 pounds

Beyond federal requirements, many employers require DOT-equivalent physicals for drivers operating smaller commercial vehicles. Companies like Amazon, local delivery services, and service contractors often mandate these examinations to ensure driver safety and reduce liability—even when federal law doesn’t require them.

If you’re uncertain whether your driving role requires DOT certification, our comprehensive FAQ covers specific scenarios, or call us at 704-544-3494 for guidance.

DOT Physical Requirements by Driver Type

While the DOT physical examination follows the same 49 CFR Part 391 standards for all drivers, each driver type faces unique considerations. Select your driver category below for specific information about requirements, employer expectations, and what to bring to your exam.

CDL Truck Drivers

CDL Class A Truck Drivers — Tractor-trailer operators, 18-wheelers, and combination vehicles over 26,001 pounds GCWR. Includes long-haul truckers and regional drivers operating for carriers throughout the Charlotte region and beyond.

CDL Class B Truck Drivers — Single-vehicle operators including straight trucks, box trucks, and large delivery vehicles over 26,001 pounds GVWR. Common among local delivery and distribution drivers in Charlotte.

Passenger Transport Drivers

School Bus Drivers — Drivers transporting students for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, private schools, and charter schools throughout North Carolina. Requires CDL with passenger (P) and school bus (S) endorsements.

Charter and Tour Bus Drivers — Motorcoach operators, charter bus drivers, and tour operators transporting passengers for companies serving Charlotte’s tourism and corporate transportation needs.

Delivery and Package Drivers

Amazon DSP Drivers — Delivery drivers for Amazon Delivery Service Partners operating throughout the Charlotte metro area. While many Amazon vans don’t trigger federal DOT requirements, Amazon requires DOT-equivalent physicals for all DSP drivers.

UPS Drivers — Package car drivers and feeder drivers for United Parcel Service facilities in Charlotte. Requirements vary by vehicle type and route assignment. Learn more about DOT physical requirements for UPS and FedEx drivers.

FedEx Drivers — FedEx Ground contractors, FedEx Express couriers, and FedEx Freight operators. Independent Service Providers (ISPs) must ensure all drivers maintain valid medical certification.

Specialty Vehicle Operators

Tow Truck Operators — Light-duty, medium-duty, and heavy-duty tow truck drivers serving Charlotte’s roadside assistance and vehicle recovery needs. Requirements depend on truck GVWR and towing capacity.

Dump Truck Drivers — Construction material haulers, aggregate transporters, and waste removal operators. Most dump trucks exceed 26,001 pounds GVWR, requiring CDL and DOT medical certification.

Construction Vehicle Operators — Drivers operating construction equipment on public roads, including concrete mixers, equipment transporters, and material delivery vehicles serving Charlotte’s growing construction industry.

Endorsement-Specific Drivers

Hazmat Endorsement Drivers — Drivers transporting hazardous materials requiring placards. In addition to DOT physical certification, hazmat drivers must complete TSA background checks and specialized training.

Tanker Endorsement Drivers — Operators of tank vehicles transporting liquids or gases in bulk. Includes fuel delivery drivers, chemical transporters, and water haulers throughout the Charlotte region.

Independent and Non-CDL Drivers

Owner-Operators — Independent truck drivers who own and operate their own commercial vehicles. We understand the financial pressures owner-operators face and offer efficient service to minimize downtime.

Non-CDL Commercial Drivers — Operators of vehicles between 10,001 and 26,000 pounds GVWR engaged in interstate commerce. Includes many service technicians, equipment operators, and delivery drivers who don’t realize they need DOT certification.

What Does the DOT Physical Examine?

Every commercial driver—regardless of type—undergoes the same comprehensive examination mandated by FMCSA regulations. The DOT physical evaluates your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle by assessing:

Vision: You must demonstrate at least 20/40 acuity in each eye (with or without correction) and adequate peripheral vision. Drivers who don’t meet standards may qualify for the FMCSA Vision Exemption Program.

Hearing: You must perceive a forced whisper at five feet or pass an audiometric test. Our hearing test guide explains requirements and accommodations for hearing aids.

Blood Pressure: Your blood pressure determines your certification period. Readings below 140/90 qualify for two-year certification; higher readings may result in one-year or three-month certificates requiring treatment.

Cardiovascular Health: The examiner evaluates heart conditions, history of heart attacks, and cardiovascular procedures. Drivers with stents, bypass surgery, or pacemakers need cardiologist clearance.

Diabetes: Drivers with diabetes must demonstrate controlled blood sugar. Insulin-treated diabetes requires specific documentation per FMCSA’s updated 2018 guidelines.

Sleep Apnea: Drivers at risk for sleep apnea may require evaluation. Those with diagnosed sleep apnea must demonstrate CPAP compliance (70% usage over 30 days).

Neurological Conditions: Seizures, stroke, and TIA have specific waiting periods before certification eligibility.

Mental Health: Certain mental health conditions require evaluation to ensure safe commercial vehicle operation.

What Should Drivers Bring to Their DOT Physical?

Proper preparation ensures your examination proceeds efficiently. All commercial drivers should bring:

• Valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
• Current DOT medical card (if renewing)
• Complete list of all medications with prescribing doctor information
• Glasses or contact lenses (if you wear corrective lenses)
• Hearing aids (if applicable)

Drivers with specific medical conditions need additional documentation. Review our complete DOT physical checklist or condition-specific guides:

• Diabetes: Bring your most recent HbA1c results (within 3 months) and, for insulin users, MCSA-5870 form completed by your treating physician
• Sleep Apnea: Bring your 30-day CPAP compliance report showing 70%+ usage
• Heart Conditions: Bring cardiologist clearance letter and recent stress test results
• Seizures/Neurological: Bring neurologist clearance documenting seizure-free period

How Long Is a DOT Medical Certificate Valid?

DOT medical certificates are valid for up to 24 months for healthy drivers. However, drivers with certain medical conditions receive shorter certification periods requiring more frequent examinations:

Drivers receiving three-month temporary certifications should understand the limitations and work to address underlying conditions before expiration. There is no grace period for expired DOT medical cards.

Why Choose Charlotte DOT Exam Center for Your DOT Physical?

Commercial drivers throughout the Charlotte region choose Charlotte DOT Exam Center because we specialize in DOT physicals—it’s not a sideline service. Compare our approach to urgent care clinics, Concentra, and CVS MinuteClinic:

Specialist Expertise: Our FMCSA-certified medical examiners have performed thousands of DOT physicals and understand commercial driver needs. Unlike rotating urgent care staff, you’ll see doctors who know FMCSA regulations inside and out.

Transparent Pricing: $70 covers everything—examination, urinalysis, and laminated medical card. No surprise fees, no insurance hassles, no upselling.

Efficient Service: Walk-ins welcome. Most examinations complete in 30-45 minutes. Same-day certification for qualified drivers.

Electronic Submission: We upload your results to the FMCSA National Registry within one hour of your exam—no paperwork to mail, no delays in NC DMV updates.

Complex Case Experience: Drivers with diabetes, sleep apnea, heart conditions, or other medical issues benefit from our experience navigating FMCSA requirements. We help drivers understand what documentation they need and coordinate with treating physicians when necessary.

Failed Exam Support: If you don’t pass, we provide clear guidance on next steps. Our failed DOT physical recovery guide helps drivers understand how to address medical issues and return for successful re-examination.

Charlotte Areas We Serve

Charlotte DOT Exam Center serves commercial drivers throughout the Charlotte metropolitan area and beyond. Our central location on Pineville-Matthews Road provides easy access from:

• Pineville
• Matthews
• Ballantyne
• South Charlotte
• SouthPark
• Mint Hill
• Huntersville
• Concord
• Gastonia
• Rock Hill, SC
• Fort Mill, SC

View all locations we serve or get directions to our clinic.

Schedule Your DOT Physical Today

Whether you’re a CDL Class A driver, school bus operator, Amazon DSP delivery driver, or any other commercial driver type, Charlotte DOT Exam Center provides the certification you need at a price that works: $70, all-inclusive.

Charlotte DOT Exam Center
8415 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite 102
Charlotte, NC 28226

Phone: 704-544-3494
Email: appt@tebbyclinic.com

Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Walk-ins welcome. For fastest service, call ahead to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About DOT Physicals by Driver Type

Do all commercial drivers need a DOT physical?

Not all commercial drivers need a DOT physical. Federal requirements apply to drivers operating vehicles over 10,001 pounds GVWR, transporting 16+ passengers, or hauling hazardous materials requiring placards. Some drivers operating smaller commercial vehicles may only need company-required physicals, not federally mandated DOT exams. State requirements vary, so North Carolina drivers should verify their specific obligations based on vehicle type and cargo.

Is the DOT physical the same for all driver types?

Yes, the DOT physical examination itself follows the same FMCSA standards regardless of driver type. All drivers undergo identical vision, hearing, blood pressure, and medical history evaluations per 49 CFR Part 391.41. However, certification periods and documentation requirements may differ based on medical conditions, and some employers (like school districts or hazmat carriers) may impose additional requirements beyond federal minimums.

How much does a DOT physical cost for commercial drivers in Charlotte?

At Charlotte DOT Exam Center, DOT physicals cost $70 for all driver types. This flat fee includes the complete examination, urinalysis, and laminated medical card. The price is the same whether you’re a CDL Class A truck driver, school bus driver, Amazon DSP delivery driver, or any other commercial driver type. No hidden fees or additional charges.

Do Amazon DSP drivers need a DOT physical?

Most Amazon DSP drivers do not require a federally mandated DOT physical because Amazon delivery vans typically weigh under 10,001 pounds GVWR. However, Amazon requires all DSP drivers to pass a DOT-equivalent physical examination as a company policy. This ensures drivers meet the same health and safety standards as federally regulated commercial drivers. Charlotte DOT Exam Center provides these examinations for Amazon DSP partners throughout the Charlotte region.

Do school bus drivers need a DOT physical in North Carolina?

Yes, school bus drivers in North Carolina must pass a DOT physical examination. Because school buses transport more than 15 passengers, drivers must hold a CDL with passenger (P) and school bus (S) endorsements and maintain a valid DOT medical certificate. North Carolina school districts typically require physicals every two years, though drivers with certain medical conditions may receive shorter certification periods.

What endorsements require additional DOT physical documentation?

Hazmat (H) endorsement drivers must pass a TSA background check in addition to the standard DOT physical. Drivers with passenger (P) endorsements transporting 16+ passengers face the same physical requirements but may have additional employer-specific health screenings. Tanker (N) and doubles/triples endorsements do not require additional medical documentation beyond the standard DOT physical, though employers may have supplementary requirements.

Do tow truck drivers need a DOT physical in North Carolina?

Tow truck drivers in North Carolina need a DOT physical if their tow truck has a GVWR over 10,001 pounds or if they’re towing vehicles that bring the gross combination weight rating (GCWR) over 26,001 pounds. Light-duty tow truck operators may not require federal DOT certification, but many towing companies require DOT physicals as company policy regardless of vehicle weight to ensure driver safety and reduce liability.

Can owner-operators get DOT physicals at Charlotte DOT Exam Center?

Yes, Charlotte DOT Exam Center serves owner-operators throughout the Charlotte region. Owner-operators benefit from our $70 flat-rate pricing, walk-in availability, and same-day certification. Our FMCSA-certified medical examiners understand the unique challenges owner-operators face, including tight schedules and the financial impact of medical certification delays. We electronically submit results to the FMCSA National Registry within one hour of your exam.

Do FedEx Ground contractors need DOT physicals?

FedEx Ground contractors and their drivers typically need DOT physicals because FedEx Ground delivery vehicles often exceed 10,001 pounds GVWR. FedEx Ground Independent Service Providers (ISPs) must ensure all drivers maintain valid DOT medical certificates. FedEx Express drivers operating smaller vehicles may have different requirements. Charlotte DOT Exam Center works with FedEx contractors throughout the Charlotte metro area.

What is the difference between CDL Class A and Class B DOT physical requirements?

There is no difference in DOT physical requirements between CDL Class A and Class B drivers. Both must pass the same FMCSA-mandated examination covering vision, hearing, blood pressure, cardiovascular health, and overall physical fitness. The distinction between Class A (tractor-trailers over 26,001 pounds GCWR) and Class B (single vehicles over 26,001 pounds GVWR) affects licensing requirements, not medical certification standards.

Do non-CDL commercial drivers need DOT physicals?

Non-CDL commercial drivers operating vehicles between 10,001 and 26,000 pounds GVWR in interstate commerce must obtain DOT medical certification, even without a CDL. This includes many delivery drivers, service technicians, and equipment operators. Drivers operating exclusively intrastate (within North Carolina only) may have different requirements. Charlotte DOT Exam Center certifies both CDL and non-CDL commercial drivers.

How often do commercial drivers need DOT physicals?

Most healthy commercial drivers receive DOT medical certificates valid for 24 months. Drivers with certain medical conditions may receive shorter certification periods: one year for treated hypertension or diabetes, or as little as three months for conditions requiring close monitoring. The certification period is determined by the medical examiner based on your health status at the time of examination, regardless of driver type.