When you apply for a commercial driver’s license (CDL), there are federal guidelines to follow. Among these is successfully passing the Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam with a certified health care provider. If you’re preparing to take your physical, below are answers to some common questions to help you know what to expect.

What to Know About DOT Physicals

What do I need to do to get a commercial driver’s license?

Once you pass the eligibility requirements, written tests, and training, the last step is the physical exam or checkup from an accredited health care provider. Once you’re cleared, you have to submit a copy of the medical certificate or card to the state, carrying the original whenever you drive. 

What will be checked during the physical?

During the DOT physical, a medical provider will perform a comprehensive wellness check. A commercial driver should be physically capable of handling their vehicle and working long hours safely.

To ensure this, the provider examines your eyesight for any vision limitations, such as nearsightedness and color blindness. They also check your hearing and look for signs of health problems, including hypertension, diabetes, chronic pain, or underlying cardiovascular conditions.   

How do I pass the DOT physical?

To pass the medical exam, you must have 20/40 vision or better. Anything below this measure means you must use glasses or contact lenses. If you don’t have these, you must submit a waiver to be eligible to drive, but this is only permissible within the state. You must also be able to differentiate between the colors of traffic lights.  

Your hearing must be sharp enough to identify soft sounds at least five feet away. This prevents delayed responses on the road.

Your blood pressure must be under 160/100. If it’s elevated, you may need prescription medicine to control it. The same applies to your blood sugar levels, as levels above 200 require diabetes medication.

Lastly, the use of Schedule I controlled substances automatically results in failure.

Do I need to retake the exam?

Yes, you must undergo another DOT physical with a health care provider after 24 months or two years. However, this period is shorter if you have preexisting conditions, such as hypertension or diabetes. You have to obtain a valid medical card before your old one expires so you can continue driving legally.

If you need a DOT physical for your CDL, visit Hillside Family Medicine. As a trusted medical provider in Anchorage, AK, they offer an extensive range of health care services, including occupational and wellness exams, men’s health care, and immunizations. Several of their providers are Certified Medical Examiners with the Department of Transportation. Call (907) 344-0200 to set an appointment, or visit their website for more information on their qualifications.