Commercial drivers must be medically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle, and the DOT physical is how that is confirmed. The exam follows FMCSA standards in 49 CFR 391.41 and must be performed by a certified medical examiner. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare, avoid a shortened certificate and get back on the road faster.
Who can perform a DOT physical
A DOT physical must be performed by a medical examiner listed on FMCSA's National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. Examiners can be physicians, physician assistants, advanced practice nurses, chiropractors and other licensed health professionals, but they must have completed FMCSA's training and certification testing. An exam by a provider who is not on the National Registry does not count.
Test Pro LLC can help drivers and employers schedule a DOT physical with an appropriate certified medical examiner. Ask about DOT physical scheduling when you contact Test Pro LLC.
What to bring
- A valid driver's license or CDL
- Glasses, contact lenses or hearing aids if you use them
- A list of your current medications, including doses
- Records for any ongoing medical conditions, such as a recent note from your treating provider for diabetes, heart conditions or sleep apnea, including CPAP compliance data if applicable
- Any FMCSA forms your treating providers completed for you, such as the insulin-treated diabetes assessment form or the vision evaluation report used for the alternative vision standard, and any Skill Performance Evaluation certificate you hold
Bringing complete records is one of the best ways to avoid being certified for a shorter period or being asked to come back.
What happens during the exam
Health history
You complete the driver health history section of the Medical Examination Report form (MCSA-5875). Answer honestly and completely. The examiner reviews your history and may ask follow-up questions.
Vision
Drivers generally need at least 20/40 vision in each eye and both eyes together, with or without corrective lenses, at least 70 degrees of horizontal field of vision in each eye, and the ability to recognize the colors of traffic signals. Drivers who do not meet the vision standard in one eye may be able to qualify under FMCSA's alternative vision standard in 49 CFR 391.44.
Hearing
The examiner checks whether you can hear a forced whisper at 5 feet or more, with or without a hearing aid, or uses an audiometric test.
Blood pressure and pulse
Blood pressure is checked. High readings may result in a shorter certification period while the condition is treated.
Urinalysis
A urine sample is tested for signs of medical conditions, such as protein, blood or sugar. This is not a drug test. DOT drug testing is a separate process under 49 CFR Part 40.
Physical examination
The examiner checks general appearance, eyes, ears, mouth and throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, spine, extremities and neurological function, looking for conditions that could affect safe driving.
How long a medical certificate lasts
If you meet the standards, the examiner can certify you for up to 24 months. Certain conditions, such as high blood pressure or conditions that need monitoring, may result in a shorter certificate, such as one year or less.
2025 change: electronic medical certificates for CDL drivers
Under FMCSA's Medical Examiner's Certification Integration rule, which had a compliance date of June 23, 2025, medical examiners report exam results to FMCSA electronically, and FMCSA sends the information to the state driver licensing agency. For CDL and CLP holders, the medical certification is now handled electronically, and CDL and CLP drivers are no longer required to carry a paper medical certificate. Drivers without a CDL who operate vehicles that require a medical certificate still follow the paper certificate rules. Check with your state licensing agency if your medical status does not update after an exam.
DOT physical vs. DOT drug test
The DOT physical and the DOT drug test are separate. A driver may need both when starting a new job, but the physical does not include a DOT drug test, and a DOT drug test does not replace the physical. For drug testing, see Pre-Employment DOT Drug Testing: When Can a CDL Driver Start Work?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a DOT physical take?
Many exams take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on paperwork and your medical history.
Can any doctor perform a DOT physical?
No. The examiner must be listed on FMCSA's National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
Does a DOT physical include a drug test?
No. The urinalysis during a DOT physical checks for medical conditions, not drugs. A DOT drug test is a separate test.
Do CDL drivers still need to carry a medical card?
Since the June 23, 2025 compliance date for FMCSA's electronic certification rule, CDL and CLP holders are no longer required to carry a paper medical certificate. Non-CDL drivers who need a medical certificate should keep carrying one.
Scheduling a DOT physical or drug test
Test Pro LLC helps drivers and employers in Kent and the surrounding area schedule DOT physicals and provides DOT drug testing and DOT breath alcohol testing at our Kent office. Book an appointment or contact us.