Health Med DAT

CDL Physicals

Introduction

Commercial drivers are the backbone of the economy, but keeping a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) requires adhering to strict federal health regulations. At Health Med, our certified medical examiners perform Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals. In this article, we will explain the DOT physical requirements, the testing process, and the importance of maintaining your medical certification.

What is a CDL / DOT Physical?

A DOT physical is a health examination mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for commercial motor vehicle drivers. It determines if a driver is physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely. To drive commercially, you must carry a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC).

Services Provided for DOT Physicals
Our FMCSA-certified exams include:

  1. Vision and Hearing Checks: Drivers must have at least 20/40 vision and be able to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet.

  2. Urinalysis: Screening for underlying medical conditions like diabetes (glucose) and kidney issues (protein).

  3. Cardiovascular Check: Monitoring blood pressure and pulse rate to rule out hypertension or heart anomalies.

  4. Physical Examination: A thorough review of the respiratory, neurological, and musculoskeletal systems.

  5. Certification Issuance: On-the-spot issuance of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate (wallet card) for drivers who pass.

 

Importance of DOT Physicals
Maintaining a current DOT physical is essential because:

  1. Legal Requirement: Operating a commercial vehicle without a valid medical card is a violation of federal law and can lead to fines or license suspension.

  2. Public Safety: Commercial vehicles are large and heavy; ensuring drivers are healthy prevents catastrophic accidents on highways.

  3. Career Continuity: Your CDL is your livelihood. Regular physicals ensure you address health issues early so you can keep driving for years to come.

  4. Certified Examiners: Our doctors are listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, ensuring your exam is valid nationwide.

 

Conclusion
Your career as a commercial driver depends on your health and your compliance with DOT regulations. At Health Med, we respect your time and your profession. We provide thorough, efficient DOT physicals to get you certified and back on the road as quickly as possible. Contact us to schedule your CDL medical exam with our certified team today.