Driving a big rig on the nation’s highways requires training, skill, and the proper licensing and registration. In addition to holding a Commercial Driver’s License, or CDL, truckers must meet certain medical standards and carry proof in the form of a DOT medical card. I keep mine in my wallet at all times.
The Department of Transportation medical card typically costs between $85 and $150, which is the average cost of the medical exam that must be performed for the card to be issued. There is no cost for the card itself.
Maintaining a DOT medical card is required for truckers who drive big rigs and a few other specialized drivers. Knowing the cost of this card upfront makes keeping it current easier.
Who Needs a DOT Medical Card?
According to the Federal Motor Safety Carrier Association (FMCSA), every driver who operates a commercial vehicle across state lines with a maximum gross vehicle weight of over 10,000 pounds must possess a current, valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate. The ME certificate is commonly referred to as a DOT medical card.
Other types of drivers are required to carry a DOT medical card:
- Those who drive a vehicle that can carry 15+ people
- Those who are paid to drive a vehicle that can carry 8+people
- Those who carry hazardous materials and are required to apply labels to the vehicle
Now, let’s take a look at the different kinds of DOT medical cards.
What Are the Different Kinds of DOT Medical Cards?
A driver must submit a copy of his DOT medical card to his State Driver Licensing Agency.
Drivers must also self-certify that “they only operate or expect to operate commercially in 1 of 4 possible categories with their CDL”:
- Interstate Non-excepted: You drive between states and are expected to hold a DOT medical card.
- Interstate Excepted: You drive between states and do not have to carry a DOT medical card.
- Intrastate Non-excepted: You drive within a single state and are expected to hold a DOT medical card.
- Intrastate Excepted: You drive within a single state but do not have to carry a DOT medical card.
Now, let’s take a look at how much a DOT medical card and the exam cost.
How Much Does a DOT Medical Exam & Card Cost?
To receive a DOT medical card, a driver must first undergo and pass a medical exam at a certified DOT medical location by a licensed medical practitioner. This is to make sure a driver is in good health and able to safely operate a big rig.
The cost of the medical exam is the only cost associated with a DOT medical card. The cost of an exam varies by location and provider. Average costs range from $85 to $150, although, in some places, you might find an exam to be as low as $50 or as high as $225.
As an example, CVS offers initial DOT medical exams for $109 and follow-up exams for $35.
Will My Insurance Cover a DOT Medical Exam?
Now that you know how much a DOT medical card costs, you may be wondering if your insurance will cover the cost.
Because the exam is related to employment, health insurance plans do not typically cover the cost of a DOT medical exam. Also, most exam locations expect payment at the time of service.
However, since it is required by the FMCSA and is a condition of employment, many companies offer either partial or full reimbursement of the cost of getting a DOT exam. I typically check with my specific employer to find out their reimbursement policy.
What Is Involved in Getting a DOT Medical Card?
Now, let’s talk about what’s involved in getting a DOT medical card.
To get a DOT medical card, you must pass a thorough physical exam and then submit the results to the appropriate licensing agency in your state.
It certainly helps if you are in good physical condition. If you have time before the exam, consider implementing a fitness routine and limiting alcohol and cigarette consumption to be in the best possible shape.
What to Bring to the DOT Physical Exam
As mentioned before, you should make sure you’re in good shape before the exam.
Also, be sure to gather the following information to take with you to the exam:
- Routine medical history
- Medical records from any specialists you see
- Vision or hearing aids if you need them to drive
- List of any medications you currently take
- DOT medical examination form
Now, let’s take a look at what goes on during the exam.
During the Exam
In my experience, exams usually take around 30-60 minutes.
You should expect the health provider to work through the following items:
- Ask questions about your overall general health
- Take height and weight measurements
- Check reflexes
- Check for hernias
- Screen blood pressure
- Perform a hearing test
- Perform a vision test
- Get a urine sample
Now you know how much a DOT medical card is and the process of getting one.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found getting and keeping a DOT medical card is pretty straightforward, especially if you’re in good physical shape. The cost of the medical exam to get the card is a reasonable expense to expect every 2-3 years and is often covered by the trucking company.
