If you're a commercial driver, you're familiar with the need for required CDL physicals and DOT physicals. As part of the regulatory process to ensure safety on the road, all commercial drivers have to undergo a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam, and some states require it for obtaining their commercial driver's license (CDL) as well, such as CDL physicals.
The criteria focus on mental health, physical fitness, and emotional fitness. The standards are generally determined by the federal government, and there isn't any discretion at the company or medical provider level regarding the basic requirements.
Specific Requirements Depend on the Vehicle Driven
Who does the DOT exam apply to? It depends on the specific type of commercial driving involved. Generally, anyone operating a vehicle with a capacity of more than 15 passengers is required to undergo examination. Additionally, even if you're not driving a passenger vehicle, if you are transporting more than 8 people in any vehicle for commercial purposes, the exam applies. Additionally, exam requirements are in place for any type of hazardous material commercial movement with a placard on the back of the vehicle, as well as any vehicle with a total gross weight of more than 10,000 pounds.
The Exam Itself and What to Expect
The basic DOT exam is not anything extraordinary. It provides an overall review of a driver's health, including basic medical history. This includes information about prior surgeries, current prescriptions and medications, and current symptoms. As part of the regulations, the test will also inquire about and test for illegal drug use, alcohol consumption, and tobacco usage.
The physical portion of the test covers various metrics related to a driver's physical health, ranging from weight to blood pressure to vision acuity. Any noted concerns involving major bodily functions will be documented and tracked. Lab tests are also mandatory, involving blood and urine samples. For individuals who use a sleep apnea machine or snore, a sleep test could also be required. This is typically applied in cases where a driver reports issues with daytime sleepiness or occasional drowsiness.
Contact Titusville Total Healthcare for DOT Exams in Titusville, FL
Titusville Total Healthcare offers support for CDL physicals and DOT physicals, in accordance with both federal and state examination requirements. We can address your specific needs as a driver or cater to your employer's requirements with comprehensive physicals and necessary support. Additionally, we provide in-depth evaluations of physical conditions and overall functional capacity. Reach out to us to schedule a chiropractor review appointment today. Our chiropractic team can help you promptly fulfill this requirement, ensuring you're well-prepared for your next job.