If you drive a truck or are considering driving one, you have heard of the DOT (Department of Transportation) physical, but you may not be completely aware of what it is or comprises. This post seeks to explain in detail what a DOT physical is for those unsure. In this manner, you will fully know the specifics and DOT physical criteria. Let us begin by explaining what a dot physical is.
What is a DOT Physical?
For commercial drivers that transport hazardous goods and have a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or over, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Agency (FMCSA) requires a DOT physical as a component of the CDL medical examination. A physical examination is required to ensure that drivers are both physically and intellectually capable of operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) safely.
The DOT physically tests a driver’s physical fitness and ability to perform essential job functions, including driving, lifting and moving goods, and responding to emergencies. An authorized medical examiner registered on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners conducts the physical examination.
What constitutes a DOT physical?
The DOT physical CDL medical exam includes a review of the driver’s medical history, a physical examination, and different tests to evaluate the driver’s eyesight, hearing, and capacity to carry out crucial work responsibilities. The medical examiner will ask the driver about any problems and medicines they may be taking during the medical history review. The medical examiner will also question the driver’s history of drug misuse and mental health problems.
The DOT physical examination consists of several tests and evaluations to gauge the driver’s physical condition. The medical examiner will consider the driver’s height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, and neurological and cardiovascular systems. The medical examiner will also examine the driver’s eyesight, hearing, range of motion, and joint function.
The DOT physical now involves a drug and alcohol test and a physical examination. Before receiving a license to drive a commercial motor vehicle, drivers must complete a drug test. Cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines, and opiates are just a few of the banned drugs that might be detected during a drug test. Moreover, the medical examiner may administer an alcohol test to check for alcohol intake.
What are the DOT’s physical requirements?
As previously said, you must pass the DOT physical examination to drive a commercial motor vehicle in the United States. The criteria are intended to ensure drivers are physically and mentally capable of handling the strenuous responsibilities involved in commercial driving. Some of the essential DOT physical standards are as follows:
- Vision: Drivers must have a horizontal visual field of at least 70 degrees in their combined field of both eyes and vision in each eye of at least 20/40 (with or without correction).
- Hearing: Regardless of hearing aids, drivers must be capable of hearing a forced whisper from at least five feet away.
- Blood pressure: If a driver has high blood pressure (hypertension) and their blood pressure is now under control, and they have been given the all-clear by a medical professional, they may be medically certified to drive.
- Diabetes: If a driver has diabetes and their condition is well-controlled, they may be medically qualified, provided they also fulfill specific blood sugar and medication standards.
- Medication: Depending on the kind and amount of the drug, certain medications may prevent a driver from being medically qualified.
- Physical fitness: Commercial drivers must be physically fit to accomplish jobs like getting in and out of the truck’s cab, coupling & uncoupling trailers, and opening and shutting doors.
What happens if you do not pass the DOT examination?
A driver cannot drive a commercial motor vehicle if they fail the DOT physical. Depending on the extent of the health problem or issue that caused the failure, the driver may get a temporary or permanent disqualification. To resolve the problem that caused the failure, drivers may also need to submit to extra testing or get medical care.
Commercial drivers must pass ongoing physical examinations and initial DOT physicals to keep their licenses. These CDL medical examinations are conducted regularly, depending on the driver’s age, medical history, and other considerations. Drivers under the age of 49 must get a DOT physical every two years, while those above 49 must have one every year.
Why is a DOT physical required?
The DOT physical is a key component of the FMCSA’s efforts to enhance safety on the nation’s roadways, even if it may be unpleasant for some drivers. The DOT physically contributes to accident prevention and promoting safe driving habits by verifying that commercial drivers are physically and psychologically capable of operating their vehicles safely. Also, the physical aids in identifying drivers at risk for health problems that could impair their capacity to drive a commercial motor vehicle.
You can better prepare for the physical now that you know what the DOT physical is, what it entails, and what the criteria are. Remember that the main objective is to maintain your safety and health, so be sure to give completing the criteria first importance. Please contact us if you have any more questions about the DOT physical or trucking school. You can count on us to point you correctly.
