Trucking company DOT physical requirements are the FMCSA-mandated medical certification standards that every commercial truck driver must meet before operating vehicles over 10,001 pounds GVWR in interstate or intrastate commerce [1]. Under 49 CFR 391.41, motor carriers are prohibited from allowing drivers to operate commercial motor vehicles unless they possess a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate issued by an examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry [2]. Charlotte DOT Exam Center has served Charlotte-area trucking companies since 1991, providing reliable DOT physical examinations for OTR, regional, and local carriers.
| Physical Standard | FMCSA Requirement | Certification Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Vision | 20/40 acuity each eye, 70° peripheral field | Vision exemption available if one eye fails |
| Hearing | Perceive forced whisper at 5 feet | Hearing exemption available |
| Blood Pressure | Below 140/90 for 2-year certificate | Stage 1: 1-year; Stage 2: 3-6 month cert |
| Diabetes | No insulin use OR ITDM exemption | Annual certification with exemption |
| Cardiovascular | No current diagnosis likely to cause sudden incapacity | Cardiologist clearance may be required |
| Neurological | No epilepsy, no seizures in past 10 years | Seizure-free period required |
| Substance Use | No current alcoholism or drug use | SAP evaluation if prior violation |
Charlotte DOT Exam Center provides DOT physical examinations for all types of trucking operations:
| Condition | Certification Path | Documentation Needed |
|---|---|---|
| High Blood Pressure | 1-year or 2-year cert based on control | Current medication list |
| Sleep Apnea | Certification with CPAP compliance | 90-day compliance report (70%+ usage) |
| Type 2 Diabetes (non-insulin) | Standard certification if controlled | Recent A1C results |
| Insulin-Treated Diabetes | Annual cert with ITDM exemption | Endocrinologist clearance, MCSA-5870 |
| Heart Conditions | Case-by-case evaluation | Cardiologist clearance letter |
| Back Problems | Certification if functional | Treating physician statement |
| CDL Class | Vehicle Type | DOT Physical Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs GCWR | Yes — full FMCSA exam |
| Class B | Single vehicles over 26,001 lbs GVWR | Yes — full FMCSA exam |
| Class C | Vehicles under 26,001 lbs with HazMat or 16+ passengers | Yes — full FMCSA exam |
| Non-CDL | Vehicles 10,001-26,000 lbs GVWR | Yes for interstate commerce |
Most truck drivers require DOT physical examinations every 24 months. However, drivers with certain medical conditions (like high blood pressure) may receive shorter certification periods of 3, 6, or 12 months until their condition is controlled [5].
Drivers should bring: valid photo ID, complete list of current medications with dosages, glasses or contacts if used for driving, hearing aids if used, CPAP compliance report if diagnosed with sleep apnea, and any specialist clearance letters for ongoing medical conditions.
Yes. Our FMCSA-certified examiners have extensive experience with drivers who have manageable conditions. We work within FMCSA guidelines to certify drivers whenever safely possible and provide clear guidance when additional documentation is needed.
We offer same-day and next-day appointments for trucking companies with urgent hiring needs. Qualified drivers receive their Medical Examiner’s Certificate the same day as their examination.
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