Our doctors are Certified Medical Examiner (CME) that is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The law requires that commercial motor vehicle drivers obtain a DOT physical exam every 2 years or sooner if needed. The purpose of the CDL Physical Exam – also called DOT Physical Exam – is to ensure that the driver meets the criteria of the physical, mental and emotional needs that it takes to drive long hours and maintain safety. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) allows only certified medical examiners to do the CDL physical exam.

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What to Expect During Your CDL Physical Exam

Vision

All CDL drivers are required to have at least 20/40 acuity in each eye with or without correction. In addition, commercial drivers are required to have at least 70” peripheral in the horizontal meridian, measured in each eye.

Hearing

Commercial drivers are required to be able to perceive what is known as a “forced whisper” at a distance of 5ft or less, with or without a hearing aid. This CDL physical exam standard equates to an average hearing loss in the better ear of less than 40 dB.

Blood Pressure/Pulse Rate

Our certified medical examiner will check the driver’s blood pressure and pulse to look for high blood pressure and irregular heartbeats.

Urinalysis

For all CDL physical exams an urinalysis is required. The test looks for indications of underlying medical conditions and is not a drug test.

Physical Examination

The DOT Physical Exam will cover several different categories:

  • General appearance
  • Eyes (cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, etc.)
  • Ears (scarring of tympanic membrane, perforated ear drums, etc.)
  • Mouth and throat (to look for problems breathing or swallowing)
  • Heart (murmurs, extra sounds, pacemaker, etc.)
  • Lungs and chest, not including breast examination (abnormal breathing, impaired respiratory functions, cyanosis, etc.)
  • Abdomen and Viscera (enlarged liver, viscera, muscle weakness)
  • Vascular (abnormal pulse, carotid, varicose veins)
  • Genito-urinary (hernias)
  • Extremities (limb impaired)
  • Spine, other musculoskeletal (previous surgery, limitation of motion, tenderness, etc.)
  • Neurological (impaired equilibrium, coordination or speech pattern, ataxia, asymmetric deep tendon reflexes)

A DOT physical exam can only be completed by a medical examiner certified by the FMCSA. It is up to the certified medical examiner to determine if a candidate meets all the requirements, and to mark the report to the best of their knowledge and ability.

More information of DOT physical exam requirements and exemptions, found here. Also, more information on WA CDL phycial exam requirements, found here.

What to Know About Your CDL Medical Exam

If the medical examiner finds that the person he/she examined is physically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle, the medical examiner will complete a Medical Examiner’s Certificate and give the original to the person who was examined. Also, the medical examiner will keep a copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate on file for at least 3 years. Furthermore, if a driver wishes the Certificate to be in card form, he/she may: Purchase a separate “medical card” from an industry supplier of motor carrier forms (e.g., State trucking association) before the physical exam and ask the medical examiner to complete and sign it, in addition to the Medical Examination Report form; or Print the Certificate on cardstock paper. It is permissible to reduce the size of the Certificate. For more information please visit FMCSA.

What Do I Need to Bring to the CDL Physical Exam?

You need to bring your drivers license and a list of any medications that you are taking.

How Long is the CDL Physical Exam?

The DOT Physical Exam is about 15 minutes long, however it might be a little longer or a little shorter depending on the situation.

Schedule CDL Physical Exam

CDL Physical Exam Forms

Medical Examination Report (MER)

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires that interstate commercial motor vehicle drivers maintain a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), Form MCSA-5875 to drive. As part of the physical, drivers are required to fill out the medical history portion of the Medical Examination Report (MER) Form, MCSA-5875.

Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC)

If the Medical Examiner determines that the driver examined is physically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle in accordance with the physical qualification standards, the Medical Examiner will complete and provide the driver with a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), Form MCSA-5876. The Medical Examiner will keep a copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), Form MCSA-5876 on file for at least 3 years.

391.41 CMV Driver Medication (optional)

The 391.41 CMV Driver Medication Form, MCSA-5895, requests additional information regarding medications prescribed by the treating physician as an optional tool for Medical Examiners to use in determining if a driver is medically qualified under 49 CFR 391.41.

Get Your DOT Physical Exam Now

Ensure your commercial driver’s license (CDL) remains valid and up to date by undergoing a DOT Physical Exam. This examination is specifically designed to assess your overall health and fitness to operate a commercial vehicle safely. By participating in this exam, you are not only complying with federal regulations but also prioritizing the safety of yourself and others on the road. The DOT physical exam evaluates various aspects such as vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical condition to ensure that you are fit to handle the demands of the job. Don’t overlook the importance of this exam, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining your CDL and ensuring your continued success as a professional driver.

DOT Physical Exam for CDL Drivers

Look no further! Our team of experienced doctors are here to serve you in Anacortes, Everett, Snohomish, Lake Stevens, Woodinville, Mill Creek, Monroe, Duvall, Carnation, Fall City, Kirkland, Kenmore, Lynnwood, Arlington, Granite Falls, Darrington, Bellingham, Sedro Woolley, Whidbey Island, Marysville, Tulalip, Stanwood, Camino Island, Burlington, Bothell, Seattle, and Mount Vernon. We understand the importance of maintaining your health and ensuring you meet all the necessary requirements for your CDL. With our convenient location in Sultan and knowledgeable staff, you can trust us to provide you with a thorough and efficient examination. Don’t let the hassle of finding a reliable doctor hold you back – schedule your CDL Physical Exam with us today! No more late nights searching for CDL Physical Exam doctors near me.

Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your CDL Physical Exam. Our team of dedicated doctors is committed to providing you with a superior experience that meets all the necessary requirements. Whether you’re a seasoned truck driver or just starting your career, trust our DOT Physical Exam doctors to provide you with the highest level of care and expertise. Schedule your appointment today and experience the difference for yourself.