At Cascade Health Clinic we are dedicated to making your DOT Physical Exam experience as stress-free as possible, starting with more than just the environment. We’ve optimized our processes to reduce wait times and enhance efficiency, ensuring you can complete your exam quickly without compromising the quality of care. Our goal is to make your visit smooth and hassle-free, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your health and well-being. Count on us to provide a thorough, accurate DOT Physical Exam that’s free from unnecessary stress and worry.
Book DOT Physical Exam
Our team of DOT Physical Exam doctors are Certified Medical Examiners (CME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. All commercial motor vehicle drivers must undergo a DOT Physical Exam every two years, or even sooner if necessary. The primary objective of the DOT Physical Exam is to ensure that drivers possess the physical, mental, and emotional capabilities required to handle the demands of driving long hours while prioritizing safety. Rest assured, your well-being is our top priority, and we will do everything we can to make your exam as smooth and stress-free as possible.
What to Expect During DOT Physical Exam
The DOT Physical Exam ensures that commercial drivers are fit to operate vehicles safely. It includes a vision and hearing test, blood pressure check, and a general physical exam to assess overall health, including weight, lung function, and joint mobility. You may also need to provide a urine sample for tests like blood sugar levels. The DOT medical examiner will review your medical history and any chronic conditions, such as sleep apnea or diabetes, and may ask for documentation from your doctor to confirm that your condition is under control. If you pass, you’ll receive a DOT medical certificate, usually valid for two years, but it may be shorter if you have specific medical issues. If you don’t pass, you might need further tests, additional documentation, or a temporary certificate while managing a condition.
General Exam
The DOT Certified Medical Examiner will assess your overall health, including heart, lung, and abdominal function, as well as joint mobility and strength. They’ll check for any issues like hernias, neurological concerns, or conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely. If any concerns are found, additional testing or documentation may be required.
Vision
DOT Physical Exam standards require drivers to have a minimum of 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without correction. Additionally, drivers must have at least 70 degrees of peripheral vision in the horizontal meridian, measured in each eye.
Hearing
Commercial drivers must be able to hear a “forced whisper” from a distance of 5 feet or less, with or without a hearing aid. This DOT Physical Exam standard corresponds to an average hearing loss of no more than 40 dB in the better ear.
Blood Pressure/Pulse Rate
Our certified medical examiner will carefully check the driver’s blood pressure and pulse to identify any signs of high blood pressure or irregular heartbeats. Monitoring these vital signs is crucial for ensuring overall cardiovascular health and determining if the driver is physically fit for the demands of the job.
Urinalysis
During the DOT Physical Exam, a urinalysis is conducted to check for specific health conditions. It primarily screens for blood sugar levels to identify potential signs of diabetes or uncontrolled blood sugar. The test also checks for protein in the urine, which could indicate kidney issues or other health concerns. Additionally, ketones may be tested, as high levels can signal poor blood sugar control in diabetic drivers. Finally, the test looks for any signs of urinary tract infections or other kidney-related problems. This helps the examiner assess your overall health and determine if you are fit to drive.
More information of DOT Physical Exam requirements, found here. Also, more information on WA CDL Physical Exam requirements, found here.
What to Know About DOT Physical Exam
Once a DOT medical examiner determines that an individual is physically fit, they will issue a Medical Examiner’s Certificate. This official document serves as proof of the individual’s fitness for the job. The DOT medical examiner will also retain a copy of the certificate for at least three years, maintaining a record of the assessment and ensuring the individual can obtain a duplicate if needed.
Who Needs DOT Physical Exam
The DOT Physical Exam is required for both CDL and non-CDL drivers to ensure they meet the physical standards necessary for safe driving. While the exam is a federal requirement for those holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL), many employers also require non-CDL drivers to undergo this exam to ensure they are fit for the responsibilities of driving. The exam evaluates key health factors such as vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical condition, helping to identify any medical issues that could affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. For non-CDL drivers, the exam can be an essential step in meeting employer requirements and ensuring they are physically capable of handling the demands of the job. Ultimately, the DOT Physical Exam promotes road safety, supports employee well-being, and helps employers maintain a safe, qualified workforce.
What to Bring to DOT Physical Exam?
List of Medications
Have a list of all medications you’re currently taking, including prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs, along with dosage and frequency.
Medical History
Be prepared to discuss your medical history, including chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease. If you have any of these conditions, bring relevant medical records or a note from your doctor confirming you’re fit for driving.
Vision and Hearing Aids (if applicable)
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them. If you use hearing aids, don’t forget those as well.
Sleep Apnea Documentation (if applicable)
If you have sleep apnea and use a CPAP machine, bring documentation showing that you’re compliant with your treatment plan.
Blood Pressure Records (if applicable)
If you have high blood pressure, bring recent blood pressure readings, especially if you’re managing it with medication.
Special Documentation (if applicable)
If you have specific medical conditions, make sure to bring any relevant documentation to demonstrate that your condition is under control and that you are fit for duty. Common conditions that require special attention include:
Diabetes: If you have diabetes, bring records showing that your blood sugar levels are well-managed and stable. You will also need to provide a completed Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus (ITDM) Assessment from your treating provider, as this form contains all the necessary information regarding your insulin use and condition management.
Epilepsy or seizures: According to FMCSA guidelines, drivers with a history of seizures must be seizure-free for at least 10 years to be medically certified. Additionally, drivers cannot be taking any seizure medications during this seizure-free period. The FMCSA requires that drivers who have had seizures and are on medication be off all seizure medications for the required time before they can qualify for medical certification. Drivers must also provide medical documentation confirming they are stable and free from seizures during the designated period. If these conditions are met, the driver may be eligible for certification to operate a vehicle safely.
Cardiovascular Issues: For drivers with cardiovascular issues, such as heart disease or a history of heart attack, the FMCSA requires documentation from a cardiologist confirming that the driver is stable and capable of driving safely. The cardiologist must state that the condition is well-managed, symptom-free, and does not interfere with the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. In some cases, additional tests may be required to demonstrate functional capacity.
How Long is DOT Physical Exam?
The DOT Physical Exam typically takes a minimum of 15 minutes, but it often lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your health history and whether additional tests or documentation are required. However, if you have chronic conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, or heart disease, the exam could take longer as the examiner may need to review your medical records, ask more questions, or request additional documentation from your doctor. For drivers in good health with minimal complications, the exam can be completed in a shorter time frame, but more complex cases may require additional evaluations, extending the overall time.
DOT 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.
Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment (ITDM)
The Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment Form MCSA-5870 is required for commercial drivers who are diagnosed with diabetes and use insulin to manage their condition. This form must be completed by their treating healthcare provider and submitted to the medical examiner to provide medical documentation confirming that the driver’s diabetes is under control and that they are fit to drive. The form includes details about the driver’s treatment plan, blood sugar management, and overall health status, helping the medical examiner assess whether the driver meets the medical standards for operating a commercial vehicle safely. The completed form must be provided to the Certified Medical Examiner within 45 days of completion.
Vision Evaluation Report
The Vision Evaluation Report Form MCSA–5871 is required when a commercial driver does not meet the standard vision requirements during the DOT Physical Exam. If the driver has vision impairments that affect their ability to meet the minimum visual acuity, field of vision, or color vision standards, this form must be completed by an eye care professional. The form provides detailed information about the driver’s vision condition and treatment, helping the Certified Medical Examiner determine if the driver is medically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.
Non-Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment (optional)
The Non-Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment Form MCSA-5872, requests additional information regarding the diagnosis, monitoring, and stability of non-insulin-treated diabetes mellitus and may be used by medical examiners as an optional tool to assist them in determining if a driver meets the physical qualification standards
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 DOT Physical Exam Now
The DOT Physical Exam is a crucial assessment designed to evaluate your overall health and ensure you’re physically fit for the demands of your job. By completing this exam, you’re not only meeting federal requirements but also prioritizing your well-being and the safety of those around you. The exam checks important factors such as vision, hearing, blood pressure, and general physical condition to confirm you’re fully capable of performing your duties. Don’t overlook the importance of this exam—it’s a vital step in maintaining your qualifications and supporting your continued success.
DOT Driver Exemptions
FMCSA requests that applicants for hearing and seizure exemptions submit specific information to the Agency for review. This information may include physical qualification exam information, medical records, employment history, driving experience, and motor vehicle records. The Agency will make a final decision within 180 days of receiving a completed application.
Applying for DOT Exemption
An individual may apply for an DOT exemption from the seizure and/or hearing standard. If you do not currently meet the seizure and/or hearing standard and are unable to obtain a non-restricted Medical Examiner’s Certificate, Form MCSA-5876, you may be an eligible candidate.
Diabetes Package
This package has been removed due to the update of the Diabetes Standard.
Vision Package
This package has been removed due to the update of the Vision Standard.
Hearing Package
A driver may need to submit a Federal Hearing Exemption Application for DOT if they fail to meet the required hearing standards during their DOT Physical Exam. Specifically, the DOT requires drivers to be able to hear a “forced whisper” at a distance of 5 feet or less, with or without a hearing aid. If a driver’s hearing loss exceeds the allowable threshold (an average hearing loss of 40 dB or more in the better ear), they may not meet the necessary hearing standards for certification.
- Federal Hearing Exemption Application (NEW)
- Federal Hearing Exemption Application (RENEWAL)
- Medical Release Form (Hearing) SAMPLE
- Medical Release Form
Seizure Package
A driver may need to submit a Seizure Exemption Application for DOT if they have a history of seizures or a seizure disorder that would otherwise disqualify them from meeting the medical requirements for a CDL. Typically, drivers with a seizure history are disqualified unless they can provide evidence of being seizure-free for at least 10 years and not taking any seizure medications during that period. If a driver meets these requirements, they can apply for a Seizure Exemption through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which may allow them to regain their medical certification and continue driving, provided they meet specific FMCSA criteria.
- Federal Seizure Exemption Application (NEW)
- Federal Seizure Exemption Application (RENEWAL)
- Medical Release Form (Seizure) SAMPLE
- Medical Release Form
DOT Physical Exam for CDL Drivers
Look no further! Our experienced team of DOT Physical Exam doctors is ready 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, Camano Island, Burlington, Bothell, Seattle, and Mount Vernon. We understand how important it is to stay healthy and meet all CDL requirements. With our convenient Sultan location and a dedicated, knowledgeable staff, you can count on us for a thorough and efficient exam. Skip the hassle of searching for a reliable provider—schedule your DOT Physical Exam with us today!
Keep On Truckin’ On ™
Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your DOT Physical Exam doctor. Our team of dedicated doctors are 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.
Whether its UPS, FedEx, Amazon, or PepsiCo, many jobs require drivers—whether CDL or non-CDL—to undergo a DOT Physical Exam. Companies prioritize the safety of their drivers and the public, ensuring that their employees are physically fit for the demanding nature of their roles. The DOT Physical Exam evaluates essential health factors such as vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical fitness, confirming that drivers are capable of operating vehicles safely. In addition to logistics and delivery giants like UPS, FedEx, and Amazon, other companies in industries such as retail, distribution, and transportation also enforce these requirements. At our facility, we provide the DOT Physical Exam to meet the needs of employers and ensure drivers are compliant with industry standards. By completing the exam with us, drivers not only meet employer policies but also contribute to safer roads and a more efficient workforce. Whether driving delivery trucks, distribution vehicles, or company fleets, the DOT Physical Exam we offer is a crucial step for drivers across a wide range of industries.
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