To drive a commercial vehicle, federal law requires you pass a DOT — Department of Transportation — physical exam and obtain a DOT medical certificate. DOT physicals ensure that drivers are in good health and can handle the hours and duties associated with commercial driving.

Below, the primary care doctors at Patient Choice Medical Care in Hamden, CT, discuss what to expect from the DOT physical exam:

What Do DOT Physicals Include?

DOT physicals are generally performed by a primary care physician. The examination will assess your mental and physical health alongside an evaluation of your medical history. Based on these factors, the physician will offer a recommendation as to your ability to meet the job requirements. Expect your physical to inspect the following:

• Vision: To drive a commercial vehicle, you must possess a minimum of 20/40 vision in both eyes, either with or without corrective lenses. The assessment is made using a traditional eye chart.
• Hearing: Commercial drivers must be able to hear tones and sounds at varying frequencies and distances to obtain a DOT medical certificate. This applies to drivers with and without auditory aids.
• Blood Pressure: Your primary care physician will assess your blood pressure and pulse rate to determine the presence of hypertension, heartbeat irregularities, and high blood pressure. Drivers with higher readings may still obtain a medical certificate — though it will often require you to undergo more frequent testing.
• Urinalysis: You must provide a urine sample to uncover potential health issues, such as diabetes. This is separate from a drug and alcohol test, which will be administered by your employer at a later date.

From DOT physicals and lifestyle counseling to internal medicine and MRI scans, you can depend on the primary care doctors at Patient Choice Medical Care for the personalized, professional care and attention you deserve. Visit their Hamden, CT, medical center online or call (203) 535-0262 to learn more about their health services.