Time for your DOT physical? Here’s everything you need to know.
Finding an Examiner
Must use FMCSA-registered medical examiner. Find one at the National Registry.
What They Check
Vision
- 20/40 in each eye (with or without correction)
- 70-degree field of vision
- Color recognition for traffic signals
Hearing
- Forced whisper test at 5 feet
- Or audiometric test
Blood Pressure
- Less than 140/90: 2-year cert
- 140-159/90-99: 1-year cert
- 160-179/100-109: One-time 1-year (must improve)
- 180+/110+: Disqualified until controlled
Urinalysis
- Checks for diabetes, kidney issues
- NOT a drug test
Physical Exam
- Heart/lungs
- Neurological
- Musculoskeletal
- General health
Conditions That May Affect Certification
- Diabetes (especially insulin-dependent)
- Sleep apnea
- Heart conditions
- Seizures/epilepsy
- Missing limbs
- Vision/hearing impairments
Many conditions can still get certified with documentation or waivers.
What to Bring
- Driver’s license
- List of current medications
- Doctor’s notes for any conditions
- Previous medical card
- Glasses/hearing aids if used
Cost
Typically $75-150 depending on location.
Validity
- Standard: 2 years
- Medical conditions: May be 1 year or less
- Must self-certify with state DMV after exam
Questions about specific conditions? Ask below!
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