All drivers are expected to take a physical exam per the requirements of the Department of Transportation. This can be a dreadful task, but is a requirement for over the road truck drivers if you are committed to keeping your CDL-A.
Failing a DOT physical could potentially end a long and successful driving career, and infrequent checkups can lead to long-term health concerns or countless sleepless nights with high anxiety.
So, why do I need a DOT physical?
This is the first step in taking ownership of your physical and mental health. Sometimes driving on the road for long periods, we forget to take time for ourselves. These exams help with identifying any underlying medical conditions that could prevent a driver from operating a commercial vehicle safely. We want all our drivers to understand that these regulations help promote highway safety for not only you but also other drivers.
What Can I Expect During a DOT Physical?
We get it; the idea of being constantly questioned and poked by someone in a white lab coat is not the most ideal situation, but it is a necessary part of maintaining your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Here are some things to expect during the examination:
- Bring Your Medical Paperwork: To get the best experience, it’s helpful for your medical professional to have access to and knowledge of your medical history. This would include having any current or past conditions, surgeries, or taking new medications.
- Physical Exams: A typical exam may include testing your ability to see, hear, blood pressure, and overall physical health. If you have any underlying or specific conditions, this would be a good time to bring them up, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension, etc. The medical professional could also ask questions regarding your sleeping patterns and overall mental health since these are factors that could also affect your overall driving abilities. Remember, slow down, think about what symptoms you have been feeling recently, and ask lots of questions.
- Keep all your documents: If you pass the exam, you will receive a Medical Examiner’s Certificate; this is important to keep if requested by law enforcement. Depending on your state, you may have to update your state’s licensing office and pay a fee to maintain non-excepted interstate (NI) classification, which allows you to operate over 26,000 lbs across state lines.
Commitment to Safety
At Dynamic Transit, we are committed to supporting drivers every step of the way, including their physical and mental health journey, by offering valuable resources and guidance. We are not medical experts and encourage seeking professional help or support services if you have any additional questions or concerns.
At the end of the day, the best way to prepare for your DOT is to get a good night’s rest before your exam, eat a healthy meal, and don’t be afraid to ask questions! Remember, the DOT physical is a necessary part of maintaining your CDL and making sure you are safe on the highways! Understanding what to expect and how to prepare will help you feel more confident in navigating through these check-ups more regularly.
Keep trucking and take care!