DOT Physicals

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all commercial drivers to regularly undergo Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals. At Reagan Medical Center, which has offices in Lawrenceville, Dacula, Suwanee, and Johns Creek, Georgia, the primary care team provides DOT physicals for truck drivers, bus drivers, and others in the transportation industry. Call the nearest Reagan Medical Center office today to schedule a DOT physical, or book your appointment online.

What are Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals?

A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is a routine medical exam required of all commercial drivers. It assesses your general health to ensure you’re fit enough to operate a vehicle, like a bus or semi-truck.

Who needs DOT physicals?

DOT physicals are required of anyone who:

• Transports hazardous materials and displays a hazmat placard on their vehicle
• Is paid to operate a vehicle that carries eight or more passengers
• Operates a vehicle carrying 15 or more passengers
• Drives a vehicle that has a gross combination weight rating of over 10,000 pounds

After you complete a DOT physical, the Reagan Medical Center team will provide you with a certificate to give to your employer. 

What do DOT physicals involve?

The Reagan Medical Center team tailors DOT physicals to your needs and health history. Most DOT physicals include:

Detailed review of your healthy history

Your provider has you fill out a questionnaire about your general health. Tell the team about the medications you take, the medical conditions you’re living with, and your history of surgeries. Answer each question honestly, and don’t leave anything out.

A physical exam

Next, your Reagan Medical Center provider completes a physical. They take your blood pressure, complete a hearing and vision exam, and assess other health indicators like your reflexes. Tell your provider if you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms that affect your ability to drive a motor vehicle. 

Lab testing

Last, your provider orders lab tests, including urinalysis and blood work. These tests check for underlying medical conditions like diabetes and kidney disease and screen for substances such as drugs and alcohol. 

If the Reagan Medical Center team determines you’re healthy enough to drive a commercial vehicle, they provide you with a certificate. This certificate means your commercial driver’s license (CDL) is in good standing.

How do I prepare for a DOT physical?

Preparing for a DOT physical is easy. The Reagan Medical Center team recommends bringing a list of the medications and supplements you take, updating your eyeglasses and contact lens prescription, and eating healthily in the days leading up to the exam. If you have any health concerns, write them down, and be sure to bring them up during your appointment.

Call the nearest Reagan Medical Center office today to schedule a DOT physical, or book your appointment online.