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Q&A
Who can I go to, to get my DOT medical card?
Can I go to my own doctor to get my DOT physical or do I have to use my company doctor?
What’s the difference between a DOT Doctor and a Medical Examiner?
How long does it take to get my medical certificate?
What’s involved in a DOT physical?
What would cause me to fail a DOT physical?
When I do my DOT physical do I have to get completely naked?
Who pays for the DOT Physical Examination? Me. Company. Insurance?
If I don’t have medical insurance can I still get a DOT physical?
How much does a DOT physical exam cost without insurance?
Why do I have to have a urine test for a DOT physical?
Can I get a copy of my DOT physical form?
How long is the DOT medical card good for?
How many 3-month DOT medical cards can you have?
Is there a difference between a DOT physical card and a DOT medical certificate?
How do overweight truck drivers pass the DOT physical?
What if I’m disqualified – may I request another DOT physical?
What if I don’t disclose a medical condition when I go through the DOT physical exam?
Who can I go to, to get my DOT medical card?
Interstate drivers: CMV drivers who drive interstate, must get Federal medical certificates from a medical examiner who is FMCSA National Registry Certified. (Find a registered CME)
Intrastate drivers: Each individual State makes the determination as to whether or not intrastate drivers must be examined by a certified ME listed on the National Registry. To avoid hassles it’s our recommendation that you find a registered CME.
Can I go to my own doctor to get my DOT physical or do I have to use my company doctor?
This will depend on the company policy. Your company may require you to use their company doctor for your DOT physical exam. If this is not a requirement, you may go to any medical examiner who is certified on the FMCSA National Registry.
What’s the difference between a DOT Doctor and a Medical Examiner?
There is no difference, these terms are used interchangeably. The terms Medical Examiner, Certified Medical Examiner, and CME are now being used since the federal regulation came into force on May 21, 2014. Drivers will not be able to go to just any healthcare provider for your DOT physical. You must go to a Certified Medical Examiner on the FMCSA National Registry.
How long does it take to get my medical certificate?
It should take 30-45 minutes to go through the physical examination. Provided there are no medical concerns the medical examiner will be able to certify you and issue your medical certificate.
If the medical examiner has concerns about a potential, current or past medical condition you may be required to see a specialist for additional medical tests or get documentation from your treating physician. In this case the medical examiner will not be able to complete the DOT physical exam until these requirements have been fully met.
Be Prepared! Find out what you should know before you get to your DOT physical appointment.
What’s involved in a DOT physical?
The DOT physical exam is considered a “Medical Fitness for Duty” exam for the demands of the job required of any commercial driver, not just the driver’s current job duties. The medical examiner’s role is to determine if a CMV driver’s health meets FMCSA standards.
The examining doctor has these two questions foremost in mind when conducting the physical exam:
- Can the driver safely meet the physical and mental demands of the job today, and for the period for which the medical card will be issued?
- Does the driver have any past or current medical conditions, which may impact the ability to meet the demands of the job now or in the future?
The DOT physical is an extensive medical examination to determine if you are qualified to safely operate a commercial vehicle. The best way to understand the DOT Physical Examination is to relate the medical requirements to the demands of your job as a commercial driver. The full extent of these are explained in Trucker Docs™ special guidebook to getting your medical certificate.
What would cause me to fail a DOT physical?
Any condition that would cause a loss of ability to control, operate, or drive a commercial vehicle safely – loss or impairment of limbs, poor visual or auditory acuity, insulin-controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, respiratory disfunction, epilepsy, mental disorder, use of certain drugs, alcoholism.
The DOT physical is an extensive examination. The full extent is explained in Trucker Docs’ special guidebook. Any disease, disorder, injury, or medication could cause you to fail if they present a risk to public safety.
When I do my DOT physical do I have to get completely naked?
No. There is no reason to get naked. Loose clothing will suffice for the examining physician to be able to complete all aspects of the DOT physical exam.
Who pays for the DOT Physical Examination? Me, my employer, my insurance?
There is no set answer here.
Sometimes the driver pays.
Some companies will pay for it, some will not. So check with your company because some require that you use their company doctor.
Some insurance companies treat this exam as preventative health care and will not reimburse for it. Sometimes the driver will pay, and may submit the receipt to their insurance for reimbursement, if the insurance will pay.
If I don’t have medical insurance can I still get a DOT physical?
Yes. You do not need medical insurance to get a DOT Physical.
How much does a DOT physical exam cost without insurance?
Currently we’ve seen DOT physicals charged anywhere between $50 and $300. The new FMCSA Medical Examination Forms (2016) and reporting system have increased administrative work and time for medical examiners, and costs for the DOT physical exam are rising accordingly.
Why do I have to have a urine test for a DOT physical?
The urine test is just a kidney screen to test for sugar and protein. It’s done to determine that there is no early onset of conditions like high blood pressure breaking down the kidneys, or early signs of diabetes, or kidney infection.
Can I get a copy of my DOT physical form?
Yes. As well as receiving your medical certificate you should also get a copy of the long form (Medical Examination Report). The medical examiner is required to keep a copy of these documents for three years. If you need a copy you should contact the medical examiner. Contact information is on your medical card.
How long is the DOT medical card good for?
A DOT medical card is valid for two years if you have no restrictions. A history of high blood pressure, taking high blood pressure medications, a sleep disorder, and taking oral medications for diabetes can restrict the medical card to one year or less, depending on how frequently the condition needs monitoring.
How many 3-month DOT medical cards can you have?
One only. You should have the condition, which caused the restriction, under control by the end of the 3-month window.
With the typical 3-month medical card, you needed to do something to bring some physical condition under control. If you did that, and you go back to see your last DOT examiner, he can issue you a new medical card for typically one year. If you didn’t fix the issue, he can choose not to extend the card. So get the condition taken care of and don’t have to worry about short term medical cards.
Is there a difference between a DOT physical card and a DOT medical certificate?
No. These terms are used interchangeably. They are most often referred to as a DOT medical certificate when referring to the medical card, and DOT physical when referring to the DOT physical exam.
I lost my medical card. How do I go about getting another one? Do I have to do the DOT physical again?
No you do not have to do the physical exam again. The medical examiner is required to keep a copy of the exam documents for three years. If you need a replacement medical card you should contact the medical examiner.
How do overweight truck drivers pass the DOT physical?
Being overweight is not a restriction to passing the DOT physical exam. It is the medical conditions that being overweight eventually leads to, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and kidney disease, that may affect your ability to safely drive a commercial vehicle. That is what the DOT Physical exam will determine – whether you have any of these restrictive medical conditions. Getting healthy and staying healthy is your best guarantee for your life and your livelihood.
Does the DOT physical require a driver to be completely healthy… does that include sexually transmitted diseases?
No. An STD will not affect a DOT examination.
What if I’m disqualified – may I request another DOT physical?
This really depends on why you were disqualified.
Doc shopping used to be what folks did, but that is changing with DOT and FMCSA. If all medical examiners are following the guidelines and regulations, then it would not matter where you go, you would still be disqualified if the same situation exists.
If the disqualification seems unreasonable, and you feel you are truly fit enough to safely drive a CMV, then discuss the concerning condition with the medical examiner, and ask for options that may help you to be reconsidered for certification.
Second opinion: A driver always has the option of getting a second opinion. If the qualification restrictions or disqualification seems unreasonable, and you feel you are truly fit enough to safely drive a CMV, you should find a different clinic to get a second opinion. The new examination decision supersedes the previous examination.
What if I don’t disclose a medical condition when I go through the DOT physical exam?
When you complete the health history section on the long form you must certify that your responses are complete and true. Making a false statement for concealing a disqualifying condition may invalidate the examination and any medical certificate issued, based on it.
What about “shopping” for a DOT doctor who will be “lenient” on the qualifiers for DOT medical certification?
Some drivers used to do “shopping around”. Starting 2016, the FMCSA reporting system with the National Registry will have the capability to flag multiple exams, identify missing or false information reported by the driver in the Driver Health History section of the MER Form, MCSA-5875, and make a determination to void the driver’s MEC, Form MCSA-5876, if appropriate.
It isn’t an issue of lenience. It’s an issue of whether you, as a driver, are safe and medically fit to operate a commercial motor vehicle. It’s about safety for you and the public at large. Do what you need to do to be medically fit to pass the DOT examination and don’t worry about finding a lenient DOT doctor.
Second opinion: A driver always has the option of getting a second opinion. If the qualification restrictions or disqualification seems unreasonable, and you feel you are truly fit enough to safely drive a CMV, you should find a different clinic to get a second opinion. The new examination decision supersedes the previous examination.
Certified medical examiners are now required to understand the role of a commercial driver. The doctor who understands the lifestyle and job challenges of a driver, should really want to help you alleviate conditions that could potentially threaten not only your livelihood, but also your life, and possibly the lives of others if a catastrophic event could occur. So if you need a second opinion, look for a medical examiner who considers the big picture of fit for duty rather than one who does a checklist exam.
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Your comments are also welcome.
I have kidney disease and do home dialysis. Is it therefore impossible for me to pass DOT physical.
@ RV3
Lesser class cdl’s will fall under the states guidelines and variances. Class A, if you go intra-state only may be possible due to falling within the states requirements. Class A interstate will be out for sure.
I need a copy of the long form from my CDL physical. I have my certificate, but the doctors office said they will not release my long form to me because I did not pay for it. Only the company that paid for it can have it and I need it for my new job
@ Gerald F C
Sounds like you are going to have to go and get a new medical certification examination on your dime. Don’t understand this, if the company pays then they get the long forms and you don’t. It’s BS.
I was injured while at work and am currently on Workers Comp. My CDL medical examiners certificate is going to expire soon but I just had surgery and cannot pass the exam because of my injuries.
What is going to happen to my CDL? Will it get suspended/revoked?
Is there a procedure for people in my position? I can’t be the only person who has gone through this, however I cannot find the answer anywhere online.
Please help!
@ John A
Your state will have a process for situations like yours. Check with your local DLD for guidance.
Are Transportation Companies and DOT Medical Examiners still receiving payments from CPAP Companies for requiring CPAP for Drivers? This was an incentive when this all begin 15 years ago and was quite substancial.
@ Mary W
Seems like there are still people and facilities that are in bed with sleep study clinics.
Conflict of interest????
Hello,
Is it considered “shopping” if you have to go to a different provider because your other is unavailable? My employer says I must go back to the same one due to me getting a 90 day card which is set to expire June 17.
@ Marcus
It is not considered shopping if you want a second opinion or the CME is unavailable when you are available.
Can you operate with a second consecutive 90 medical card if it is@ Mi for a different reason?
@ Mitch
If it was input to the national registry as a valid 90 day card, then yes.
what is the fine in michigan for driving with an expired medical card
@ Doug J
You have to check with your local DLD, we have no idea about individual states, only federal DOT/FMCSA.
I’m type 1 diabetic and my medical card expires this month. My doctor will not fill out my mcsa5870 until my 2nd consecutive appointment in July. I have a correct A1c reading. My question is will they issue me a 1 or 3 month card ?
@ Novoski
Possibly, depending on the CME and his complete understanding of the DOT/FMCSA guidelines for regulations.
I was Medically disqualified in July for my DOT card due to a medication I take on an as needed basis (Meclizine). What would I need to do in order to pass? Will I need to be off the medication? Or will I simply need to wait until a certain amount of time has passed with no issues? Or am I completely unable to get my DOT card? I’ve been searching for information but it’s difficult to find. Thanks!
@ Rebekah M
Because of its potential side effects, there are risk factors that the CME is having to take into consideration. Being off the medication is one way, having your prescribing doctor provide additional information is another way.
I had a mini stroke 3/6/23 . I was released from my medical doctor and the cardiologist and physical therapy to go back to work but they refuse to give me a medical card for a year what can I do3
@ Norma C
DOT/FMCSA for a class A cdl has a waiting period of one year. This is due to the possibility of another stroke within the first 6 months to a year. For lesser class cdl’s or intra-state only license will fall under the states guidelines and federal.
My friends Card expired on April 5th. They plan to get it renewed in the next couple days. May 3-5th
They are not currently driving but do not want to get the CDL revoked due to know having a current Med card. What is the time frame before a CDL would be revoked in Washington State for not having a current Med Card?
@ Teresa B
Your friend needs to check with the states drivers license department for the best answer. Best to go with a copy of the new medical card in hands. Easier to beg forgiveness than to ask questions for permission.
My current DOT Medical Card expires in October 2023. My question is how far in advance am I allowed to go renew it?
@ Dave
Any time you like, there are no set restrictions.
I just got hired and start driving school on Monday. Took my physical three days ago, I read that they only use your urine to check your health, why was I told to take a drug test during the prehiring process? I passed all written exams and now getting ready for driving school. What happens if I fail the drug test
@ E
Any company can request a separate drug screen upon hiring. It can lower their insurance with a drug free environment. If you fail the drug screen, then it is up to the company as to how they want to handle it.
Good afternoon, my nephew was given his medical card for only one year because he was nervous and he came out with high blood pressure and they gave him a paper for his primary doctor to fill out. My question is, can he change clinics when he needs to renew his card? or you have to come back with the same to deliver that paper
@ Manys
He can go to another clinic for his next DOT medical certification examination.
If I just took a dot physical 8 months ago and passed and turned it in to my state but didn’t turn it in to the company I drive for so they told me it was invalid and sent me to concentra In California and the doctor there told me I had sleep apnea because of my neck size and she would only give me a three month medical until I get a sleep apnea test done what do I do at this point
@ Erica
When you have to go to a doc in a box that is in bed with a sleep study facility (conflict of interest) it’s what you get. Go get a second opinion from somewhere else.
Had my appendix removed on 3/13/23.Doctor gave me a doctor note ok to return to work on 4/15/23. Work wants me to do a dot physical before I return. Even though my physical is good for another year. My question is can I do my physical before 4/15/23 or do I have to wait until the 4/15/23 when I’m technically release to work. Thanks
@ Daniel
Once fully released, then the new physical card.
Can you get a medical card with a previous failed dot random drug test presently in clearinghouse?
@ Tracy L
You should be able to.
I was diagnosed with moderate sleep apnea, farely new to this Capp , not very familiar with this 30/90/120days of use . At 70%
I not aware that I needed to have 90 day at 70% I failed my Dot. Physical. Already had a 3 month card, my 90 day is at 65.5 % and my sleep doctor said it’s takes a month to get in compliance, this Cpap instead of helping me sleep it’s making me loss sleep, and stressing me out. Might even make me homeless. Any advice you can give me will be deeply appreciated. Thank you
@ John G
Let your CME know that you are working with a new unit and see what your last thirty day compliance looks like. He may be able to issue a short medical card if your number look improved from your ninety day.
I do not work with or use my CDL B everyday, I didn’t need to carry my medical card on me at all times. So I have 2018-2020, and now a 2023-2025, But went to renew, and was told CDL is to be canceled? I got my CDL before 2012, and was never informed of this, even when I got my 2018 CDL renewed I was not informed or given any information of this? Was only told I needed a current card at time of renewal. Can I bring in all my medical records from 2020 thru 2023 to prove that I was healthy?
@ Timothy J
As a class B cdl holder, you fall under your states guidelines and variances not DOT/FMCSA. You will need to check with your local DLD for guidance.
My company disagrees with my passing Healthcard…ME was thier choice..can my employment be denied with passing card and who chooses 2nd examination Dr?
@ Craig C
What? You should be able to choose your second opinion CME.
Is it allowable to hold two different CDL medical certificates for two different employers?
@ Eugene J M
No, the last medical card you received was input to the national registry and voided the one before.