A DOT physical, or Department of Transportation physical, is a medical exam that is required for people who drive commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). The purpose of a DOT physical is to ensure that CMV drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to operate their vehicles safely. A DOT physical typically includes a review of the driver's medical history, a physical exam, and a urine drug test. The physical exam may include checking the driver's height, weight, blood pressure, vision, hearing, and overall health. The urine drug test is used to check for illegal drugs and other substances that could impair the driver's ability to operate a CMV safely.
DOT physicals are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). CMV drivers must have a DOT physical every two years, or more often if their medical condition warrants it.
Here are some of the things that are checked during a DOT physical:
If a driver fails a DOT physical, they may be prohibited from driving a CMV until they have successfully passed a subsequent physical.