The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the official group that sets regulations for the safe operation of commercial vehicles in the country. Each state also has specific regulations. The test evaluates an individual’s general health, as well as emotional and mental fitness for the demands of professional driving.

A requirement from the FMCSA is for all commercial drivers to receive a certification of good health, which will be received upon passing a DOT Physical Examination. Only medical professionals who are listed on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners can issue a certificate as these individuals have had the proper training in FMCSA regulations to effectively determine if a person is healthy enough to work safely and ensure that they are not wrongly disqualified.

You will need a DOT physical if you fall into one of these categories:

• You operate a motor vehicle designed to carry 15 or more people.
• You are paid to operate a motor vehicle designed to carry 8 or more people.
• You operate a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight, gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight of over 10,000 pounds.
• You transport hazardous materials that necessitate your vehicle to be placarded with warning labels.

Drivers and applicants must complete the first part of the Medical Examination Report Form (MCSA-5875) to obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate. The rest of the form must be completed and validated by the licensed medical examiner. Before coming for your physical exam, you should review this form and supply the required information in the first part.

Your medical exam will include the following:

• Health History – You must report a variety of past medical conditions that apply to you including serious illnesses or injuries, high blood pressure, a history of seizures, sleep disorders, lung disease, alcohol/drug use, chronic low back pain, or diabetes.
• General Physical Condition – This assessment includes eyes, ears, nose, throat and mouth, heart, abdomen, vascular system, and other body systems for abnormalities. Things such as limb impairment, obesity, hernias, or heart murmurs will be noted on the examiner’s report.
• Vision Test – Your eyes will be tested to ensure you meet the vision requirements.
• Hearing Test – Your ears will also be tested to ensure you meet the safety requirements for hearing.
• Urine Test – Tests for proteins, blood, and sugar levels.
• 5-panel DOT Controlled Substance Screen – Although it is not always a requirement, your company may require this test which complies with DOT standards. This screen tests for marijuana (THC), phencyclidine (PCP), cocaine (COR), amphetamines (AMP), and opiates (OPI) and is not a part of the standard DOT physical.

If you have epilepsy, high blood pressure, diabetes, breathing dysfunction, vision impairment, or mental disorders, you may be required to see a specialist for further evaluation and a possible waiver.

If you or someone you know needs a DOT Physical, come to PrimeHealth Urgent Care today! Our professional and caring staff are here to help you get back on the road as smoothly as possible! To speak with one of our specialists, contact our office today. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 5660 Fishhawk Crossing Blvd, Lithia, FL 33547. We serve patients from Lithia FL, Balm FL, Keysville FL, Hopewell FL, and surrounding areas.