FedEx operates multiple divisions with different DOT physical requirements:
FedEx Ground (ISP Contractors): Most FedEx Ground delivery trucks exceed 10,001 lbs GVWR, requiring DOT physicals under federal regulations. Independent Service Providers (ISPs) must ensure all their drivers maintain valid certification.
FedEx Express: Requirements depend on vehicle size. Drivers operating larger vehicles may need DOT physicals.
FedEx Freight: All linehaul and city drivers require federal DOT physicals. FedEx Freight operates tractor-trailers requiring CDL Class A or B.
FedEx Ground operates through Independent Service Providers (ISPs)—independent businesses that contract with FedEx. This means:
| FedEx Division | Typical Vehicle | CDL Required | DOT Physical |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground (ISP) | Step vans, box trucks | Varies by weight | Most require DOT |
| Express (courier) | Sprinters, vans | Usually no | Company policy varies |
| Freight (Linehaul) | Tractor-trailers | Class A | Federal requirement |
| Freight (City) | Day cabs, straight trucks | Class A/B | Federal requirement |
At Charlotte DOT Exam Center, our FMCSA-certified medical examiners—Dr. Alan M. Tebby and Dr. Lemuel Byrd—evaluate all commercial drivers using federal standards:
Vision: Minimum 20/40 acuity in each eye, 70-degree peripheral vision, and color recognition for traffic signals.
Hearing: Must perceive forced whisper at 5 feet.
Blood pressure: Below 140/90 for 2-year certification. Higher readings receive shorter certification periods.
Physical fitness: Neurological, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and respiratory assessment.
Urinalysis: Screens for underlying conditions like diabetes—separate from drug testing.
| Health Status | Certificate Duration |
|---|---|
| Healthy, all standards met | 24 months |
| Treated Stage 1 hypertension | 12 months |
| Insulin-treated diabetes (with exemption) | 12 months |
| Sleep apnea with CPAP compliance | 12 months |
| Conditions requiring monitoring | 3-12 months |
Drivers managing sleep apnea, diabetes, or hypertension can obtain certification with proper treatment documentation.
Convenient for FedEx drivers throughout Charlotte metro: Pineville, Matthews, Ballantyne, South Charlotte, Huntersville, Concord, Gastonia, Rock Hill, Fort Mill, and Indian Trail. Easy access from I-485, I-77, and I-85.
Walk-ins welcome Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Call (704) 544-3494 or visit 8415 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite 102, Charlotte NC 28226.
Learn about requirements for other commercial drivers at our Driver Types Hub, including UPS drivers, Amazon DSP drivers, and CDL Class A drivers.
Most FedEx Ground drivers need DOT physicals because Ground delivery vehicles typically exceed 10,001 lbs GVWR. ISP contractors must ensure all drivers maintain valid certification.
Charlotte DOT Exam Center charges $70 flat rate for FedEx driver DOT physicals—all divisions.
Policies vary by ISP. Some contractors cover physical costs; others require drivers to pay. Clarify with your specific ISP owner.
FedEx Freight linehaul drivers need CDL Class A for tractor-trailer operations. City drivers may need Class A or Class B depending on vehicle assignments.
It depends on vehicle size. Express drivers operating vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR need DOT physicals. Smaller vehicles may require company-policy physicals.
Healthy drivers receive 24-month certificates. ISPs or FedEx divisions may have additional recertification requirements.
Yes, walk-ins welcome Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Most exams complete in 20-30 minutes with same-day certification.
The examiner explains the disqualifying condition and outlines steps toward certification—treatment adjustment or specialist clearance.
No, seasonal helpers who assist with deliveries but don’t drive don’t need DOT physicals.
Yes, the examination follows identical FMCSA standards regardless of which FedEx division you work for.