DOT Physicals

DOT Physicals

Understanding DOT Physicals

Department of Transportation, or DOT physicals are a required medical exam that anyone applying for a CDL must complete. Furthermore, after obtaining your commercial license, you are required to have a DOT physical every one to two years.

DOT physicals ensure that you are able to physically meet the demands of the job. In addition, DOT physicals make sure you are able to safely operate a large vehicle without endangering yourself or others.

Who Needs a DOT Physical?

Specifically, if your job involves any of the following, then you are required to have a DOT physical:

  • Operate a vehicle that transports more than 15 people
  • Are paid to drive a vehicle that transports more than 8 people
  • Operate a vehicle that weighs more than 10,000 pounds
  • Transport Hazardous Material

What Does a DOT Physical Include?

A DOT Physical consists of the following:

Medical History:
First, your health care provider will ask you questions regarding your medical history, including:

  • Prior surgeries
  • Medications you are currently taking
  • Current health problems
  • Use of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal substances
  • Any symptoms you are experiencing

Physical Exam:
Next,  your health care provider will perform a physical exam to check the following:

  • Height
  • Weight
  • Blood Pressure
  • Vision
  • Hearing
  • General Appearance
  • Eyes
  • Ears
  • Mouth and Throat
  • Heart
  • Lungs and Chest
  • Abdomen
  • Back and Spine
  • Genital and Urinary System (to check for hernias)
  • Extremities and Joints
  • Nervous System
  • Circulatory System

Finally, your provider will order an urinalysis test. This looks for protein, blood, sugar, or specific gravity in your urine. Therefore, these results will tell them if you need any additional testing. Accordingly, if your provider feels it is necessary, they may order other tests as well.

Insurances We Accept

If your insurance is not listed, please give us a call.

  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • United Healthcare
  • Tricare
  • Medicare
  • TennCare

Need a DOT Physical to Obtain Your CDL?

Magnolia Family Medicine & Wellness is happy to help! Click below to schedule a time to come in for your physical exam.

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