UPS Driver DOT Physical Exam in Charlotte, NC
TL;DR – Ups Driver DOT Physical Quick Facts
- Cost: $70 flat rate – includes exam, urinalysis, and laminated medical card
- Certification period: Up to 24 months for healthy drivers
- Walk-ins welcome: No appointment needed, Monday–Friday 9 AM–5 PM
- FMCSA submission: Results electronically transmitted to National Registry within 1 hour
- Experience: Dr. Alan M. Tebby (40+ years) and Dr. Lemuel Byrd (44+ years)
- Location: 8415 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite 102, Charlotte NC 28226
Do UPS Drivers Need DOT Physicals?
UPS operates diverse vehicle types, and DOT physical requirements vary by position:
UPS Feeder Drivers (Tractor-Trailer): Absolutely require federal DOT physicals. Feeder drivers operate combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs GCWR, requiring CDL Class A and DOT medical certification.
UPS Package Car Drivers: Many package cars exceed 10,001 lbs GVWR, triggering federal DOT requirements. Even for lighter vehicles, UPS typically requires DOT physicals as company policy.
UPS 22.4 Combination Drivers: These hybrid inside/driving positions require DOT physicals when operating commercial vehicles.
UPS Driver Classifications and DOT Requirements
| Position | Vehicle Type | CDL Required | DOT Physical |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feeder Driver | Tractor-trailer (53′) | Class A | Federal requirement |
| Package Car Driver | P500-P1400 trucks | Varies by weight | Federal or company policy |
| Sleeper Team Driver | Tractor-trailer | Class A | Federal requirement |
| 22.4 Combo Driver | Both types | Class A | Federal requirement |
| PVD (Seasonal) | Personal vehicle | No | Not required |
Physical Demands Unique to UPS Drivers
UPS drivers face distinct physical challenges the DOT physical evaluates:
Package handling: UPS standard is packages up to 70 lbs (150 lbs with assistance). Physical capability assessment ensures drivers can safely handle this workload.
Vehicle entry/exit: Package car drivers may enter and exit their vehicles 100+ times per day. Cardiovascular fitness and joint health are essential.
Extended routes: Feeder drivers may drive up to 11 hours per day under FMCSA hours-of-service regulations.
What Does a Ups Driver DOT Physical Examine?
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.
Certification Periods by Health Status
| 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 |
What Should Ups Drivers Bring to Their DOT Physical?
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Current glasses or contact lenses if worn while driving
- Complete medication list with dosages
- CPAP compliance data if you have sleep apnea
- Blood glucose logs if you have diabetes
- Cardiac clearance for heart conditions
- Any employer or company-required documentation
Drivers managing sleep apnea, diabetes, or hypertension can obtain certification with proper treatment documentation.
Why Ups Drivers Choose Charlotte DOT Exam Center
- $70 flat rate – No hidden fees, same price for all drivers
- Walk-in availability – No appointment needed
- Same-day certification – Laminated card in hand
- FMCSA Registry submission within 1 hour
- 84+ combined years of examiner experience
Charlotte Areas We Serve
Convenient for UPS 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.
Schedule Your Ups Driver DOT Physical Today
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 FedEx drivers, Amazon DSP drivers, and CDL Class A drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions: Ups Driver DOT Physical
Do all UPS drivers need DOT physicals?
UPS feeder drivers absolutely require federal DOT physicals. Package car drivers typically need DOT physicals because many vehicles exceed 10,001 lbs GVWR. Seasonal PVD drivers generally don’t need DOT physicals.
How much does a UPS driver DOT physical cost?
Charlotte DOT Exam Center charges $70 flat rate for UPS driver DOT physicals—feeder and package car drivers alike.
Does UPS pay for DOT physicals?
UPS policies vary. Full-time drivers often have physicals covered; part-time or new drivers may pay initially with potential reimbursement. Check with your supervisor.
What CDL do UPS feeder drivers need?
UPS feeder drivers need CDL Class A to operate tractor-trailers. Feeder positions are typically promotions for experienced package car drivers.
Can UPS drivers with sleep apnea pass DOT physicals?
Yes, with documented CPAP compliance. Bring your CPAP compliance download showing 4+ hours nightly use for 70% of nights.
How often do UPS drivers need DOT physicals?
Standard certification lasts 24 months for healthy drivers. Drivers with managed conditions receive 12-month or shorter certifications.
Do UPS 22.4 drivers need DOT physicals?
Yes, 22.4 combination drivers must maintain DOT medical certification to operate commercial vehicles.
What happens if I fail my UPS DOT physical?
Failing doesn’t automatically end your UPS career. The examiner explains the disqualifying condition and pathways to certification.
Do UPS driver helpers need DOT physicals?
No, driver helpers who don’t drive the vehicle don’t need DOT physicals. Only employees who operate commercial vehicles need certification.
Do I need an appointment for my UPS DOT physical?
No appointment required. Walk-ins welcome Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. We can accommodate drivers before or after shifts.
