Do I Need A Medical Exam To Get Or Keep My Commercial Driver’s License?

Oct 13, 2021

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOT) PHYSICALS / MEDICAL CERTIFICATION


If you currently have or you are applying for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL or CLP) you are required to complete a health examination in accordance with the state of Texas and federal mandates. 

This type of exam allows employers to check the physical viability of their drivers and determine if they are fit to operate a large commercial vehicle.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED A DOT PHYSICAL?

  • I operate a motor vehicle for interstate trade with a gross combination weight, vehicle weight, or gross combination weight over 10,000 pounds
  • I operate a motor vehicle designed to carry 15+ people
  • I transport hazardous materials that require a placard
  • I am paid to operate a motor vehicle designed to carry 8+ people
  • It’s been two years since my last exam


WHAT TO EXPECT:

During the examination, your medical practitioner will assess the following (but not limited to):

  • Overall appearance                             
  • Coordination/Reflexes
  • Hearing                                               
  • Heart
  • Eyesight                                             
  • Lungs & Chest
  • Mouth and Throat                                 
  • Urine
  • Hernia                                                 
  • Back

 

For your safety and that of the public you must meet or exceed the following minimums:

  • 20/40 visual acuity (with or without corrective aids)
  • 70 degrees or more of peripheral vision in each eye.
  • Hearing a 'forced' whisper 5 feet away without a hearing aid (or)
  • Passing a formal hearing test
  • Blood pressure at or below 140/90, or 180/110 with certification restrictions

 

Satisfactory completion of your exam entitles you to receive a Medical Examiners Certificate (MEC) that you can file with the DOT.

 

IF YOU FAIL YOUR EXAM

If you are denied a MEC, you are entitled to obtain a second opinion from another DOT physician. However, you are obligated to disclose your full and honest medical history, and you are limited to the number of medical professionals you can visit in search of a passing exam.

 

Call our Houston Texas office at 281-934-1000 or book online to schedule your DOT certified Physical today!

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