Workplace Health
DOT Physical Checklist: What to Bring and What to Expect
A practical DOT physical checklist covering documents, medications, common exam elements, and records a commercial driver may need.
A DOT physical (formally a DOT medical exam) is required for many commercial drivers under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. A certified medical examiner makes the certification decision under current FMCSA standards. Here's how to prepare.
What to bring
- Photo ID (driver's license)
- List of all medications with dosages and prescribing doctor
- Glasses, contacts, or hearing aids if you use them
- Recent records for any of these conditions:
- Diabetes — most recent A1c and a list of diabetic medications
- Heart disease — clearance letter from cardiologist if you've had a cardiac event
- Sleep apnea — your CPAP compliance report (last 90 days)
- Blood pressure — log if you monitor at home
- Insurance card (if applicable — many drivers self-pay)
What's tested
Your DOT physical includes:
- Vision test — must be at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction.
- Hearing test — must hear a forced whisper at 5 feet.
- Blood pressure / pulse — results can affect whether a certificate is issued and how long it remains valid.
- Urinalysis — checks for sugar, protein, and blood (not a drug test).
- Physical exam — heart, lungs, neuro, abdomen, back, extremities.
- Health history review.
Common reasons drivers don't pass on the first try
- High blood pressure. Check it before the exam and speak with your regular provider if readings are elevated. Do not change medication without medical guidance.
- Incomplete diabetes documentation. Bring recent records and medication information so the examiner can apply the current standard to your situation.
- Sleep apnea without compliance documentation. If you have a CPAP, bring the compliance report.
- Eyesight. If your last prescription is old, get it updated before the exam.
- New medication. Some medications (especially sedating ones) require a note from the prescribing doctor.
How long is the certificate good for?
FMCSA certification can be issued for up to 24 months. A medical examiner may issue a shorter certificate or request additional information depending on the driver's health and current federal standards.
How long does the exam take?
Exam length and whether certification can be completed that day depend on the driver's health history and whether all required documentation is available.
Call Superior Family Care before visiting to confirm whether DOT medical exams are currently available and what records to bring.