What is a DOT physical?
To drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), federal law requires you have a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical by a certified medical examiner. The office of Patrick W. Hisel, MD, PA, performs mental and physical exams for patients looking to get their CMV license.
The standards for passing the test ensure your safety and the safety of others while driving a commercial vehicle. Your mental and physical health need to be in check in order to operate a CMV, especially when driving for long periods of time.
Why do I need a DOT physical?
If your profession or company requires you to drive a commercial vehicle, you can’t get your qualifying license unless you pass your DOT physical. After your exam, if you meet the DOT’s medical standards, your provider completes your medical certificate.
Your medical certificate is usually valid for two years. However, it can expire sooner if you have any chronic or health conditions that need attention.
The office of Patrick W. Hisel, MD, PA, keeps a record of your medical history to help you stay healthy.
What happens during a DOT physical?
A DOT physical is very similar to a routine physical. Your visit begins with a consultation. Your provider asks you questions about your family’s medical history, in addition to your own. To check your mental and emotional health, they ask you to answer several questions for an assessment.
During your physical, your provider examines the following:
- Eyes
- Ears
- Lungs
- Reflexes
- Sleep habits
- Nervous system
- Back
- Urine
- Muscles
- Equilibrium
Your provider may perform a chest X-ray to examine your heart and lungs more thoroughly to meet all the requirements for your DOT physical.
What could stop me from passing my DOT physical?
Since the goal is to pass your exam, it’s good to know what might prevent you from getting your medical certificate.
Conditions that might interfere include:
- Alcoholism
- Illegal drug use
- Heart disease
- History of heart failure
- Prescription drug use
- Diabetes
In certain cases, if you don’t pass, your provider may be able to offer short-term certification to allow more time to monitor, treat, and manage your health condition.
To schedule your DOT physical today with the office of Patrick W. Hisel, MD, PA, call or book your appointment online.
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