What is a DOT physical?

A DOT physical is a routine test that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires of all commercial drivers. 

It’s an outpatient procedure that assesses your general well-being, ensuring you’re healthy enough to operate a semi-truck, bus, or another heavy piece of commercial equipment.

Who needs a DOT physical?

You’re required to undergo a DOT physical if you:

• Transport hazardous materials and display a hazmat placard
• Are paid to operate a vehicle with more than eight passengers
• Operate a vehicle with a gross combination weight rating of more than 10,000 lbs.
• Operate a vehicle that carries 15 or more people

When you pass your DOT physical at Dunia Health Clinic, the team provides you with a certificate that’s valid for two years. If you have an underlying medical condition, like heart disease or obstructive sleep apnea, more frequent DOT exams might be necessary.

What does a DOT physical involve?

At Dunia Health Clinic, a DOT physical involves the following steps:

Step one – Discussion of your general health

At the beginning of the exam, your provider asks about your general health, including how often you exercise, your diet, and if you smoke or drink alcohol. Let your provider know about any medicines you take and if you have any chronic health conditions.

Step two – Physical exam

Your provider conducts a comprehensive physical. They measure your height and weight, test your blood pressure and reflexes, palpate your organs, examine your skin, listen to your heart and respiratory rate, and ask about any unusual symptoms you’re experiencing. 

Step three – Lab testing

Next, your provider orders a series of tests, including blood work and urinalysis. These measures can identify potential issues, like high cholesterol or a hormonal imbalance. Depending on your age and health, the team might also recommend an electrocardiogram (EKG). An EKG measures the electrical activity of your heart.

Step four – Approval of your commercial driver’s license (CDL)

If you complete each section of the DOT physical, and your provider determines you’re healthy enough to operate a commercial vehicle, they provide you with paperwork to renew your commercial driver’s license (CDL). 

If you’re a commercial driver and it’s time to undergo a DOT physical, make an appointment at Dunia Health Clinic by calling the office today or clicking the online booking feature.