Medically reviewed by Dr. Lemuel P. Byrd, Jr., D.C., C.C.S.T., FMCSA Certified Medical Examiner | Last updated: January 28, 2026
TL;DR: Construction Company DOT Physicals in Charlotte
Charlotte DOT Exam Center provides specialized construction company DOT physicals for dump truck operators, concrete mixer drivers, flatbed haulers, and heavy equipment transporters throughout the Charlotte region. Our FMCSA-certified medical examiners understand construction industry schedules and physical demands. We offer early morning availability aligned with construction start times, same-day certification at $70 flat rate, seasonal hiring support, and electronic documentation for project compliance. Construction fleet managers benefit from group scheduling, expiration tracking, and rapid turnaround for new hire processing. Call 704-544-3494 to establish your construction fleet account.
Construction Driver DOT Physical Requirements
Construction companies operating commercial motor vehicles must ensure drivers maintain valid DOT medical certification under 49 CFR 391.41. This applies to dump trucks, concrete mixers, flatbed trailers, heavy equipment haulers, and any vehicle exceeding 10,001 pounds GVWR used in interstate commerce or requiring a CDL.
The construction industry faces unique DOT compliance challenges: seasonal workforce fluctuations, project-based hiring, early morning schedules, and the physical demands of combining driving with manual labor. Charlotte DOT Exam Center understands these challenges and provides fleet services designed for construction operations.
Which Construction Drivers Need DOT Physicals?
DOT physical requirements apply to construction company drivers in the following situations:
- Dump truck operators: Drivers operating dump trucks over 10,001 lbs GVWR or requiring CDL
- Concrete mixer drivers: All mixer truck operators (typically require CDL Class B)
- Flatbed haulers: Drivers transporting construction materials on flatbed trailers
- Heavy equipment transporters: Lowboy and equipment trailer operators
- Water truck operators: Dust control and site preparation vehicle drivers
- Material delivery drivers: Aggregate, asphalt, and supply delivery vehicles over 10,001 lbs
- Interstate operations: Any construction vehicle crossing state lines commercially
Construction Vehicle Classifications & CDL Requirements
Understanding vehicle classifications helps construction companies determine which drivers require DOT physicals and what CDL class applies to each vehicle type.
| Vehicle Type | Typical GVWR | CDL Required | DOT Physical |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-axle dump truck | 14,000-26,000 lbs | Class B (if over 26,001) | Required |
| Tandem dump truck | 26,001-33,000 lbs | Class B | Required |
| Tri-axle dump truck | 33,000-54,000 lbs | Class B | Required |
| Concrete mixer | 33,000-40,000 lbs | Class B | Required |
| Tractor + flatbed trailer | 80,000+ lbs GCWR | Class A | Required |
| Lowboy/equipment hauler | 80,000+ lbs GCWR | Class A | Required |
| Water truck | 20,000-33,000 lbs | Class B (if over 26,001) | Required |
| Pickup + equipment trailer | 10,001-26,000 lbs GCWR | No (under 26,001) | Required if interstate |
Note: GVWR = Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (single vehicle). GCWR = Gross Combination Weight Rating (vehicle + trailer). Actual requirements depend on specific vehicle configurations and operational scope.
Construction Driver Certification Process
Our certification process accommodates construction industry schedules with early morning availability and efficient processing. Most construction drivers complete their DOT physical in 30-45 minutes with same-day certification.
Step 1: Schedule or Walk In
Construction fleet accounts receive priority scheduling, including early morning appointments before typical jobsite start times. Call 704-544-3494 to schedule crew groups or walk in during business hours.
Step 2: Complete Medical History Form
Drivers complete the FMCSA medical history questionnaire documenting current medications, medical conditions, and health history. Construction workers should note any work-related injuries, hearing exposure, and musculoskeletal conditions.
Step 3: Physical Examination
Our FMCSA-certified medical examiner performs the complete DOT physical including vision screening (20/40 minimum), hearing test (whisper test), blood pressure measurement, urinalysis, and physical assessment. We evaluate cardiovascular fitness for the physical demands of construction driving.
Step 4: Certification Determination
Based on examination findings, drivers receive certification for up to 24 months. Drivers with managed conditions may receive shorter certification periods. We understand that construction drivers often combine driving with physical labor and evaluate fitness accordingly.
Step 5: Documentation Delivery
Drivers receive their DOT medical card immediately. Construction fleet accounts receive electronic copies of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MCSA-5876) within 4 hours. Results submit to the FMCSA National Registry within 1 hour for CDL drivers.
Specialized Fleet Services for Construction Companies
Construction companies face unique fleet management challenges: project-based hiring, seasonal workforce fluctuations, early start times, and drivers who split time between driving and manual labor. Our construction-focused fleet services address these operational realities.
Early Morning Availability
Construction crews often start at 6:00-7:00 AM. We offer early morning appointments to accommodate drivers before they report to jobsites. Schedule DOT physicals during crew meetings or before project start times to minimize productivity impact.
Group Scheduling for Crews
Process entire crews efficiently with group scheduling options:
- Same-day sessions: 5-10 drivers examined in a single morning block
- Project onboarding: New hire processing for project-based crews
- Annual recertification: Coordinate multiple driver renewals together
- Subcontractor coordination: Schedule drivers from multiple companies
Seasonal Hiring Support
Construction hiring peaks during spring and summer building seasons. We expand capacity during high-demand periods to support your hiring timeline. Established fleet accounts receive priority scheduling throughout peak season.
Expiration Tracking & Notifications
Medical certifications expire at varying intervals. Our automated system notifies your designated fleet contacts at 60, 30, and 14 days before expiration—preventing compliance gaps that could sideline drivers during critical project phases.
Electronic Documentation
Stop chasing drivers for paperwork across multiple jobsites. Fleet accounts receive electronic Medical Examiner’s Certificates within 4 hours, enabling immediate verification for project compliance requirements and DOT audits.
Seasonal Hiring Support for Construction Companies
Charlotte’s construction industry experiences predictable seasonal hiring patterns. We align our capacity with your workforce needs throughout the year.
| Season | Typical Construction Hiring | Our Support |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Peak hiring for building season | Maximum capacity, group scheduling |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Sustained high volume | Early morning availability, Saturday hours |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Project completion push | Flexible scheduling, rapid turnaround |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Reduced activity, recertification catch-up | Fleet renewal scheduling, annual physicals |
Contact us before your hiring ramp-up to ensure capacity availability. Construction companies who establish fleet accounts before peak season receive priority scheduling throughout high-volume periods.
Documentation for Construction Company DOT Physicals
Proper documentation ensures smooth certification. Have drivers bring the following to their appointments:
Required Documentation
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Current glasses or contact lenses if worn for driving
- Complete list of current medications with dosages
- Names and contact information for treating physicians
- Current CDL (if applicable) showing endorsements
Condition-Specific Documentation
- Diabetes: Recent A1C results (within 90 days), blood glucose logs
- High Blood Pressure: Blood pressure log if readings are borderline
- Sleep Apnea: CPAP compliance download showing 4+ hours/night on 70%+ of nights
- Heart Conditions: Cardiologist clearance letter, recent stress test results
- Back/Joint Injuries: Orthopedic clearance if recent surgery or injury
- Hearing Loss: Audiogram if using hearing aids or known hearing impairment
After Work Injury or Surgery
- Workers’ compensation documentation
- Treating physician clearance for return to commercial driving
- Physical therapy discharge summary if applicable
- Functional capacity evaluation if performed
Construction Company DOT Physical Questions & Answers
Which construction drivers need DOT physicals?
DOT physicals are required for construction drivers operating vehicles over 10,001 pounds GVWR in interstate commerce, or any vehicle requiring a CDL (generally over 26,001 pounds GVWR or transporting hazmat). This includes dump truck operators, concrete mixer drivers, flatbed haulers, lowboy operators, water truck drivers, and material delivery drivers. Even smaller vehicles may require DOT physicals if they cross state lines for commercial purposes. If you’re unsure about specific vehicles in your fleet, contact us for guidance on FMCSA requirements.
Can construction drivers with back injuries get DOT certified?
Many construction drivers with back injuries or surgeries can achieve DOT certification with proper documentation. The medical examiner evaluates whether the condition interferes with safe vehicle operation—not whether you can perform manual labor. Bring orthopedic clearance documenting that you can safely operate commercial vehicles, including the ability to sit for extended periods, operate pedals, and respond to emergency situations. Recent surgery typically requires a waiting period and physician clearance before certification.
Do you offer early morning appointments for construction crews?
Yes. We understand construction crews often start work at 6:00-7:00 AM. We offer early morning appointments to accommodate drivers before jobsite start times. For group scheduling, we can process 5-10 drivers in a morning session before they report to work. Contact us to arrange early scheduling that aligns with your crew’s operational needs. This minimizes productivity impact while ensuring compliance.
How do you handle seasonal construction hiring surges?
We expand capacity during construction’s peak hiring season (March through August) to accommodate increased new hire processing. Established fleet accounts receive priority scheduling throughout high-volume periods. For large project startups requiring multiple new drivers, contact us 1-2 weeks in advance to ensure same-day processing capacity. We can schedule crew groups across consecutive days for efficient processing without overwhelming daily capacity.
What if a driver fails the hearing test?
Construction environments expose workers to significant noise, and hearing loss is common among experienced drivers. Drivers who don’t pass the whisper test can use hearing aids and retest—hearing aids are permitted for DOT certification. If a driver cannot meet hearing standards even with aids, they may qualify for the FMCSA Hearing Exemption Program. We guide drivers through the exemption application process and provide required documentation for qualified candidates.
Can drivers return to work after a workers’ comp injury?
Drivers returning from workers’ compensation injuries can be recertified once their treating physician clears them for commercial driving. Bring documentation showing the injury has healed sufficiently for safe vehicle operation, including any work restrictions. If the injury affected vision, hearing, or mobility, additional specialist documentation may be required. We work with drivers and employers to establish appropriate certification periods based on recovery status.
Do construction companies need drug testing with DOT physicals?
DOT drug testing and DOT physicals are separate requirements, though both apply to CDL drivers. Drug testing is required for pre-employment, random selection, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up situations. We offer DOT-compliant 5-panel drug testing that can be combined with DOT physicals at the same visit. Construction companies benefit from our consortium/third-party administrator (C/TPA) referrals for ongoing random testing program management.
How do subcontractors coordinate DOT physicals?
General contractors and subcontractors can coordinate DOT physicals through our fleet services. We accommodate scheduling for drivers from multiple companies working on shared projects. Each company can establish separate fleet accounts with their own billing and documentation delivery, or prime contractors can coordinate scheduling for all project drivers. Contact us to discuss coordination arrangements that work for your project structure.
Frequently Asked Questions: Construction Company DOT Physicals
How much do construction company DOT physicals cost?
Construction company DOT physicals cost $70 per driver at Charlotte DOT Exam Center. This flat rate includes the complete examination, urinalysis, laminated medical card, and FMCSA National Registry submission. No hidden fees. Volume pricing available for fleets of 16+ drivers.
How long does a construction driver DOT physical take?
Most construction driver DOT physicals complete in 30-45 minutes with same-day certification. Drivers who meet FMCSA standards receive their medical card before leaving. Groups of 5-10 drivers can be processed in a single morning session before reporting to jobsites.
Do dump truck drivers need DOT physicals?
Yes. Dump truck drivers operating vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR in interstate commerce, or vehicles over 26,001 lbs requiring a CDL, must maintain valid DOT medical certification. This applies to single-axle, tandem, and tri-axle dump trucks used in construction operations.
Can construction drivers with hearing loss get certified?
Yes. Hearing aids are permitted for DOT physicals. Drivers must perceive a forced whisper at 5 feet with or without aids. If unable to meet this standard, drivers may qualify for the FMCSA Hearing Exemption Program. We guide construction drivers through exemption applications.
How do I set up a fleet account for my construction company?
Call 704-544-3494 or email appt@tebbyclinic.com to establish your construction fleet account. Setup takes one phone call—provide your business name, DOT number (if applicable), fleet size, and billing contact. No contracts or minimum commitments required.
Do you offer early morning appointments for construction crews?
Yes. We offer early morning appointments to accommodate construction schedules. Process drivers before they report to jobsites. Contact us to arrange scheduling that aligns with your crew’s start times and minimizes productivity impact.
Charlotte DOT Exam Center Location
Address
Charlotte DOT Exam Center
8415 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite 102
Charlotte, NC 28226
Phone: 704-544-3494
Email: appt@tebbyclinic.com
Hours
Monday-Friday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Saturday: 8:30am – 12:00pm
Sunday: Closed
Walk-ins Welcome
Serving Charlotte construction companies since 1991
Charlotte Construction Industry Service Area
We serve construction companies throughout the Charlotte metropolitan area including Charlotte, Pineville, Matthews, Huntersville, Concord, Gastonia, Monroe, Mooresville, and Rock Hill SC. Convenient South Charlotte location with easy access from I-485, I-77, and major construction corridors throughout the region.
Establish Your Construction Fleet Account Today
Streamline your driver certification process with Charlotte’s trusted DOT physical provider. Same-day certification, early morning availability, and seasonal hiring capacity for construction companies.
$70 Flat Rate • Walk-Ins Welcome • Same-Day Certification