DOT Exams & CDL Certification

FMCSA-Compliant DOT Physical Exams for Commercial Drivers

Advanced Physical Medicine Center provides Department of Transportation physical exams and CDL medical certification in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines. DOT physical exams are required to ensure that commercial drivers are medically qualified to operate commercial motor vehicles safely.

DOT exams at Advanced Physical Medicine Center are conducted by a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. Exams are performed accurately and professionally to ensure compliance with all federal requirements.

Drivers who meet medical standards may receive a DOT medical certificate valid for:

  • Up to 2 years for drivers without qualifying medical conditions
  • Shorter certification periods if ongoing monitoring or follow-up is required

Certification length is determined by FMCSA guidelines and individual health factors.

Medical Examination Report Form

Please fill out pages 1-2 ahead of time before your medical exam.

  • Print out & bring it with you OR
  • Email the PDF to us: APMC.Fairview@gmail.com

Who Needs a DOT Physical Exam

A DOT physical exam is required for drivers who:

  • Operate commercial vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds
  • Hold or are applying for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
  • Transport hazardous materials
  • Drive a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 passengers, or more than 8 passengers for compensation
  • Operate a commercial motor vehicle across state lines as part of interstate commerce
  • Are required to meet FMCSA medical standards for employment

Maintaining a valid DOT medical certificate is required to continue driving legally.

What the DOT Physical Exam Includes

The DOT physical exam evaluates a driver’s overall physical and mental fitness to safely operate a commercial vehicle. The exam includes:

Medical History Review

A detailed review of current and past medical conditions, surgeries, medications, and overall health history.

Urinalysis

Testing to evaluate kidney function and screen for conditions such as diabetes.

Vision Examination

Assessment of visual acuity, peripheral vision, and color recognition in accordance with FMCSA standards.

Physical Examination

Evaluation of the heart, lungs, abdomen, neurological system, spine, joints, and overall musculoskeletal function.

Hearing Evaluation

Calming treatments that regulate the nervous system and reduce emotional strain.

Neurological and Mental Assessment

Assessment of alertness, coordination, and neurological health relevant to safe driving.

Blood Pressure and Pulse

Assessment of cardiovascular health and screening for hypertension.

Respiratory and Sleep Health Screening

Evaluation for breathing-related conditions, including signs of sleep apnea or other disorders that may affect alertness and safe driving.

Before Your Appointment – What to Bring

Preparing in advance helps ensure a smooth and efficient DOT physical exam. Please review the information below carefully before your appointment.

All Drivers

  • Bring a complete list of all medications, including dosages and prescribing doctors.
  • Complete the driver’s portion of the Medical Examination Report and bring the printed form with you. (FMCSA Form MCSA-5875)

Drivers Who Use Eyeglasses, Contact Lenses, or Hearing Aids

  • Bring your glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids
  • You will be required to pass a vision and hearing test during your exam

Drivers With High Blood Pressure

  • Your blood pressure must be below 140/90 on the day of your exam
  • Drivers with elevated readings may not qualify for DOT certification

Drivers With Diabetes

  • Blood sugar levels should be well controlled
  • Bring recent Hemoglobin A1C (HgA1C) results and blood sugar records

Drivers With Sleep Apnea Using a CPAP Machine

  • Bring documentation showing proper CPAP use
  • At least 90 days of usage data is required, with one year preferred
  • A letter from your sleep specialist may also be required

Drivers With Heart-Related Conditions

This includes a history of stents, valve replacement, pacemaker, bypass surgery, open-heart surgery, or heart attack.

  • Bring a letter from your cardiologist confirming you are medically safe to operate a DOT vehicle
  • You may also need recent testing results such as a stress test or echocardiogram completed within the past 1–2 years

Drivers With Neurological Conditions

This includes stroke, brain tumor, seizure disorder, or bleeding in the brain.

  • Bring a letter from your neurologist outlining your medical history, current medications, and neurological status

Drivers With Permanent Loss of Use of an Arm or Leg

  • Bring documentation from your physician describing the injury and any work restrictions
  • A Skilled Performance Examination may be required to qualify for DOT certification

Drivers Taking Medications That May Cause Drowsiness

This includes narcotics, sleeping medications, anxiety medications, ADHD medications, or other controlled substances.

  • You will likely need documentation from your prescribing physician confirming you can safely operate a DOT vehicle

Drivers Taking Coumadin (Warfarin)

  • Bring a recent INR report from your physician

Important Notes

  • Certification is issued immediately upon passing the exam
  • All exams follow current federal DOT and FMCSA guidelines
  • Drivers 70 years and older require additional specialist documentation and a more thorough evaluation.
  • OT physical exams are not covered by insurance. Some employers may cover the cost of the exam, so please check with your employer in advance.
  • Additional costs may apply depending on medical history or testing requirements.

Why Choose Advanced Physical Medicine Center

Patients value the calming environment, the experience of the acupuncture team, and the thoughtful, individualized care that each visit provides. Treatments are performed with precision, comfort, and a deep understanding of both traditional and modern therapeutic principles. This approach helps patients achieve the best possible results in a safe and welcoming setting. The acupuncture service integrates seamlessly with the other specialties available at the center, creating a complete and coordinated approach to health and healing.

Schedule Your DOT Exam Today

Stay compliant and keep your CDL certification current with a professional DOT physical exam at Advanced Physical Medicine Center. Call (201) 945-1156 to schedule your appointment. New patients are seen the same day.