Workplace Health
DOT Physical Checklist: What to Bring and What to Expect
A complete checklist for your DOT physical exam — what to bring, what's tested, common reasons drivers fail, and how to pass the first time.
A DOT physical (formally a DOT medical exam) is required for commercial drivers under FMCSA regulations. Here's exactly 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 — under 140/90 to certify for the full 2 years.
- 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. This is #1. Get it checked a week before your exam — if it's high, see your provider to adjust meds.
- Uncontrolled diabetes. A1c above 10% is usually disqualifying. Work with your doctor to bring it down.
- 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?
- Standard: 2 years
- With managed conditions (BP, diabetes): often 1 year
- Short-term cards can be issued in some cases
How long does the exam take?
Plan on 30–45 minutes. We can usually issue your medical card the same day.
Walk in during business hours or call ahead — we keep DOT exam appointments fast and straightforward.