DOT Physicals

Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals show that you are mentally and physically capable of safely holding and using a commercial driver’s license. At Family Medical Clinic in Tazewell and Harrogate, Tennessee, John M. Robertson, MD, provides detailed DOT physicals every two years. Call Family Medical Clinic, book an appointment online, or walk in for the care you need at any time. 

What are DOT physicals?

Department of Transportation physicals are detailed examinations that you need to get if you drive a commercial vehicle. These physicals show whether you are physically, mentally, and emotionally stable enough to drive safely. They are not just for your safety and your passengers’: They help keep the public safe too.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires you to complete and pass regular DOT physicals throughout your commercial driving career. If you have certain health conditions that could interfere with your driving, like heart disease or vision problems, you may still be able to pass your DOT physical by receiving treatment for them. 

Once you have passed your DOT physical, you get a valid DOT medical card. You need this to maintain your commercial driver’s license and continue working. 

What do DOT physicals involve?

Your DOT physicals are similar to the annual physical exams you get at Family Medical Clinic. They touch many bases and involve various tests to evaluate your health and bodily functions. 

A DOT physical includes your:

• General appearance
• Eyes and vision
• Ears
• Mouth and throat
• Heart and blood vessels
• Lungs and chest
• Extremities
• Nervous system
• Back and spine
• Whether you have a hernia

Some DOT physicals also include sleep apnea testing. Sleep apnea puts your driving at risk because it causes you to be fatigued during the day. It also increases your risk of severe health conditions, such as hypertension and heart disease. 

When should I get a DOT physical?

Several specific circumstances require you to get a DOT physical every two years. You need to pass your DOT physical in order to continue:

• Driving a vehicle with a gross weight of over 10,000 pounds
• Driving a vehicle that can carry 15 or more passengers
• Being paid to drive a vehicle of over eight passengers
• Transporting hazardous materials 

Your first DOT physical is part of your pre-employment screening for any commercial driver’s license job. You may need additional DOT physicals when returning to work after an accident or hiatus.

If you need a DOT physical, call Family Medical Clinic, book your appointment online, or walk in for the care you need today.