This article has been updated a number of times as new information regarding Medical Examiner’s Certification has been published by FMCSA. We have left the history of this blog post, and updated the latest information at the top of the page. 2024 Medical Certification Forms MCSA-5875 & MCSA-5876 New expiration date on the forms is 03/31/2025. […]
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COVID-19 Grace Period for CDL Medical Certificates
“Is there any grace period in place for DOT Medical Cards during the COVID-19 pandemic?” Short answer: NO! not any longer. LATEST UPDATE: October 21, 2022 FMCSA issued a series of Federal Emergency Declarations starting March 24, 2020. The final update was issued on August 31, 2022 and expired after October 15, 2022. No further […]
Does DOT Require A Sleep Apnea Test?
Drivers who come in to my office for a DOT physical exam often ask: “Why do I need a sleep study? DOT doesn’t require it.” So here is the information a driver needs to know regarding if you need a sleep study or not: The FMCSA states that DOT medical examiners should follow “best practice” […]
What do I need for a DOT physical exam?
Things To Prepare For Your Appointment Make sure to continue taking your prescribed medications as usual. Wear loose clothing for the physical exam. Don’t use the restroom just before your appointment. You will need to give a small urine sample for a kidney screen. This is not for a drug test. Things You Must Bring To […]
Blood Pressure Tips during the DOT Physical Exam
A professional driver asks Trucker Docs™… I usually get high BP only when this DOT physical is due!! What can I do? “ Here are some tips to manage your blood pressure and have it measure as low as possible during the exam. Each of these factors may affect your blood pressure reading a number of points: […]