A DOT physical is a federally mandated health examination the FMCSA requires for CMV drivers. Its purpose is to ensure that drivers can safely perform their job duties without endangering themselves or others on the road. This comprehensive exam, available for just $100, assesses your overall health and fitness, identifying potential risks that might impair your ability to operate a commercial vehicle.”

Who Needs a DOT Physical?

DOT physicals are required of all “safety-sensitive” employees. This means their job performance can impact public safety. You are required to pass a DOT physical if you do any of the following:

  • Operate a motor vehicle designed to transport more than 15 people
  • Receive compensation for driving a vehicle designed to carry more than eight people
  • Transport hazardous material that requires your vehicle to have a placard
  • Drive a vehicle for interstate commerce that weighs over 10,000 pounds (gross vehicle weight rating, gross combination weight rating, or gross combination weight)

Federal laws and regulations require any “covered employee” to possess a valid medical card demonstrating that they passed the DOT examination. In other words, if your job requires you to meet FMCSA safety standards, you must have a current DOT physical certificate to work.

What Does the DOT Physical Exam Cover?

  • During a DOT physical, certified medical examiners evaluate key health indicators, including:
  • Vision: Minimum 20/40 acuity with or without corrective lenses.
  • Hearing: Ability to hear a forced whisper at a distance of 5 feet.
  • Blood Pressure: Monitored to ensure safe levels.
  • Urinalysis: Screening for underlying health conditions, such as diabetes.
  • Medical History Review: Discussion of any pre-existing conditions or medications.

Our goal is to ensure you meet FMCSA standards while making the process stress-free.

What to Expect During the Exam

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens during your DOT physical:

  1. Medical History Form: Complete and review your health history with our medical examiner.
  2. Physical Exam: Check vision, hearing, and vital signs.
  3. Health Screenings: Perform specific tests like urinalysis and blood pressure checks.
  4. Medical Certificate: Receive your DOT Medical Examiner’s
  5. Certificate upon passing the exam.

Preparation Tips: Bring a valid ID, your health history form, and any medications you’re currently taking.

Why Are DOT Physicals Important?

DOT physicals are vital for maintaining public safety and ensuring drivers meet regulatory standards. A valid DOT certificate is required to keep your CDL active and to continue working as a commercial driver. Regular exams also help identify potential health concerns early, protecting both drivers and the communities they serve.

Why Choose Synergy Medical Group in Gainesville?

At Synergy Medical Group, we prioritize your time and convenience.

  • Here’s why drivers in Gainesville trust us:
  • Certified Expertise: Exams performed by FMCSA-certified medical examiners.
  • Quick Turnaround: Minimal wait times and efficient service.
    Local Convenience: Located in Gainesville, easily accessible to commercial drivers.

Frequently Asked
Questions

The cost of a DOT physical is $100. This flat fee includes the comprehensive examination required by the FMCSA to ensure commercial drivers meet the necessary health and safety standards.

During a DOT physical, a certified medical examiner (CME) will check your vital signs, review your medical history and perform a required hands-on physical examination that includes, but is not limited to the following:

  • General Appearance
  • Eyes
  • Ears
  • Mouth and throat
  • Heart
  • Lungs and chest
  • Extremities
  • Nervous system
  • Hernias
  • Back and spine

Blood pressure and pulse rate: Your provider will check your blood pressure and pulse to measure your systolic and diastolic pressure levels, as well as testing for irregular heart rate.

Hearing: Drivers must be able to hear a ‘forced whisper’ at a maximum distance of 5 ft. with or without a hearing aid. The standard equates to a hearing loss of less than 40 dB in the better ear.

Urinalysis: A urine test screens for underlying medical conditions such as diabetes.

Vision: Drivers must have a minimum acuity of 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. They must also have at least 70º of peripheral vision in each eye along the horizontal meridian.

Bring your health history form, valid ID, and a list of current medications. Being well-rested is also helpful.

DOT physicals are typically valid for two years, unless a medical condition requires more frequent evaluations.

If you don’t meet FMCSA requirements, you may need to address specific health issues before retaking the exam.

You can schedule an appointment online or by calling us at: 352-234-3050