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The Comprehensive Guide to NC DOT Physical Examinations

The Department of Transportation (DOT) exam is an important part of the medical evaluation process for those who drive commercial motor vehicles in North Carolina. The DOT exam is designed to ensure that drivers are physically and mentally capable of operating a commercial vehicle safely.

The DOT physical examination must be conducted by a certified medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s National Registry. If you are looking to get a DOT physical, here is a guide to help you prepare for it and also learn what you can expect during the exam.

What Is Included in a DOT Physical?

The DOT exam consists of several different components. The first step in the process is completing paperwork, which includes medical history forms and other documents related to your driving record.

Next are the various tests that need to be completed. The DOT physical exam will include checking the following:

  • Your height and weight
  • Your vision and hearing
  • Your vital signs, including pulse rate and respiration
  • Your blood pressure levels
  • Your posture and alignment
  • Your range of motion and flexibility
  • The proper management of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and sleep apnea
  • Any digestive disorders
  • Any respiratory issues
  • Any neurological health issues, such as epilepsy or other seizure disorders

The medical examiner may order some laboratory tests, such as basic blood work to check various health-related factors, a drug test, and more, based on the medical history of the person. All these assessments help determine if a person meets federal standards set forth by FMCSA regulations, so they can drive commercially in North Carolina with confidence, knowing they are medically fit to do so responsibly and effectively.

If an individual passes the DOT physical, they will be given a copy of the results and be provided a Medical Examiner’s Certificate. A typical DOT physical exam is valid for up to 24 months unless the individual has a medical condition that requires testing in less than 24 months.

It’s important for all individuals planning on taking the DOT exam in North Carolina to understand what it entails ahead of time. This will help them prepare better, both mentally and physically, prior to their appointment date, which increases their chances of passing without issue.

How To Prepare for Your DOT Physical

Before your DOT physical, make sure to take your medications as prescribed and dress in loose, comfortable clothing. You should be able to produce a urine sample, so it is advised to come with a full bladder.

Bring the following to the testing facility:

  • Your driver’s license
  • A complete list of medications that you take
  • Any assistive devices that you use to manage your health conditions
  • Glasses, contacts, and hearing aids, if applicable

If you have any questions, make sure to place a call to the facility administrating your NC DOT Physical ahead of time.

DOT Physical in King, NC

Cardinal Urgent Care in King, North Carolina, is a certified medical examiner for DOT physicals. Our friendly and professional staff can help you prepare for this exam and ensure you understand what you need to bring and do to have a smooth exam process.

We strongly advise that appointments be made in advance for NC DOT physicals. The number to call is (336) 983-9111, or use our online form to schedule your DOT physical.

Who Needs a DOT Physical?

A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is a head-to-toe physical assessment that ensures you meet all the health standards required to drive a commercial vehicle. Even the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has mandated DOT physicals to make sure you have no medical condition or physical limitation restricting your ability to drive a commercial vehicle and putting you and others’ road safety at risk.

Let’s talk about who needs a DOT physical, what it consists of, and where you can go to get one if you are located in North Carolina.

DOT Physical: Who Needs It?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSA), you need a DOT physical done every two years if you drive a commercial vehicle. FMCSA refers to commercial vehicles as any self-propelled or towed vehicle driven on highways and involved in transporting passengers or property. Commercial motor vehicles are involved in interstate commerce.

So, according to FMCSA guidelines, you will need a DOT physical, if you:

  • Drive a vehicle that is designated to carry more than 15 people
  • Drive a vehicle that carries hazardous material and requires the vehicle to display a hazmat placard
  • Operate a vehicle on the interstate gross combination weight of over 10,000 pounds
  • Transport over 8 passengers for a fee

DOT Physical: What does it Consist of?

DOT physical involves a medical history and a standard physical exam. For medical history, you will be asked about your history of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication use, surgical procedure, alcohol consumption, illegal substance use, etc. The physical exam covers your whole body from head to toe. The functioning of your bodily systems, such as the genitourinary, neurological, and cardiovascular systems, is also checked.

During a DOT Physical, your doctor confirms that you have no limb loss and physical impairment. You will also be checked for any current clinical diagnosis of a medical condition like heart disease, respiratory dysfunction, orthopedic or neuromuscular disease, etc. In addition to physical exams, DOT physical covers your hearing, vision, general appearance, sleep, and gait.

Requirements To Pass the Test

To pass the test, you must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye, at least 70-degree horizontal peripheral vision, and be able to recognize traffic signal colors. You may use corrective lenses. You must also be able to hear a whisper at a distance of not less than 5 feet. Moreover, on an audiometer, your hearing loss in the better ear must not be greater than 40 decibels at various frequencies.

Have any medical conditions due to which you can’t pass the test? You are allowed to apply for an exemption. You can seek an exemption from vision, hearing, and seizure requirements.

DOT Physical Near Me in North Carolina

At Cardinal Urgent Care, our healthcare providers offer DOT physicals as a part of our commitment to providing the people of North Carolina with comprehensive healthcare services. We also offer sports physicals, school physicals, and much more.

If you would like to make an appointment with one of our healthcare providers for a DOT physical, call us today at  (336) 983-9111  or request an appointment now.