How Often Is a DOT Physical Needed?

Wondering how often drivers need to undergo a DOT physical exam? It can be helpful to know how often these tests are required when considering becoming a commercial driver. This type of physical examination is one that helps to ensure commercial drivers are physically fit to operate certain types of motor vehicles. DOT physicals are necessary to ensure safety for all who drive on the road.

What a DOT physical means

Understanding exactly what a DOT physical means is important for those who want to become a commercial driver. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is under the umbrella of the United States Department of Transportation and is in charge of making sure that all commercial drivers are fully qualified to properly operate a commercial vehicle. One of the qualifications is to make sure that commercial drivers are physically fit to operate large vehicles, which requires them to undergo a DOT physical examination.

How often driver’s need to undergo this type of physical exam

Commercial drivers need to undergo DOT physicals every two years. This is the amount of time that the Administration deems to be a proper amount of time for commercial drivers to be approved to drive a commercial vehicle after undergoing and passing a DOT physical examination. There is an exception for drivers who have been diagnosed with a health condition, which means that these drivers likely need to be seen more often for DOT physicals.

For example, drivers who have been diagnosed with diabetes or high blood pressure may be required to undergo a DOT physical examination every year instead of every two years. It may be necessary for some drivers to be seen even more often for certain medical conditions, like heart disease. This means some drivers may be required to undergo this type of physical exam every three or six months. It simply depends on each individual commercial driver's health when it comes to how often they will need to undergo a DOT physical examination.

Choosing a licensed medical examiner

It is necessary for a licensed medical examiner to perform DOT physical examinations on commercial drivers. One option is a chiropractor, as chiropractors graduate with a doctor of chiropractic degree. Chiropractors also focus on providing their patients with noninvasive and holistic services, making them a great option for drivers who are looking for a licensed medical examiner who focuses on holistic practices. Chiropractors who choose to offer DOT physical services must first undergo any required education courses, as well as a certification test.

Got questions?

Now that the above information has been read, it should be understood that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires commercial drivers to undergo DOT physicals every two years. However, there is an exception for drivers who have been diagnosed with a physical or mental health condition, thus making this group of drivers one that will need to undergo DOT physicals more often.

Request an appointment here: https://www.janeylhammonsnpc.com or call Janey L Hammons NP-C at (580) 922-4406 for an appointment in our Seiling office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.