DOT Physical Frequently Asked Questions

Who Needs A DOT Physical?

• Weight: Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight (GCWR) of more than 10,000 pounds (4,536 kilograms)
• Transport class: Vehicles that carry hazardous materials, more than 15 people, or more than eight people for pay
• Drive a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people (e.g., a church van)
• Are paid to drive a vehicle designed to carry more than eight people. (Airport shuttles, college shuttles)

Do I get my medical certificate on the same day as the examination?

It should take 15-20 minutes to go through the physical examination. If there are no medical concerns the medical examiner will certify you and issue your medical certificate on the same day.

If the medical examiner has concerns about a potential, current or past medical condition you may be required to see a specialist for additional medical tests or get documentation from your primary care physician. In this case the medical examiner will not be able to complete the DOT physical exam until these requirements have been met.

What would cause me to fail a DOT physical?

• High blood pressure
  If a driver’s blood pressure is above 159/99, they may be disqualified from driving commercially. The driver will need to see a physician to possibly receive blood pressure medication.
• Diabetes
  A urinalysis is part of the medical certification. If glucose is present in the urine the driver will need to see a physician before receiving a medical card.
• Vision or hearing impairment
  Drivers must be able to see 40/20 out of each eye individually and hear a whisper from 6 feet away at least with one ear.
• Epilepsy
  This brain condition can cause seizures, but a driver may be able to obtain a waiver if they’ve been seizure-free and off medication for a 10 year period.
• Inner ear issues
  Conditions like Ménière’s disease also known as vertigo can be unpredictable and may be brought on by factors like overwork, fatigue, smoking, and too much salt in the diet.
• Substance abuse
  Applicants must not have any substance abuse problems that could pose a risk to operating their vehicle.

How long is the DOT medical card good for?

The certificate is valid for 2 years. However, drivers with specific medical conditions require more frequent certification such as:

• Hypertension (Medication-controlled high blood pressure): 1 year
• Heart disease: 1 year
• Qualified under 391.64 the original diabetes and vision waiver program 1 year
• New insulin and vision exemption program 1 year
• Driving in exempt intra-city zone: 1 year
• Conditions that require more frequent monitoring such as sleep disorders.

Do I need to get undressed for the Physical?

No. We do however ask that you wear loose clothing.

If I live in another state aside from RI or MA, can I have a DOT medical examination in RI or MA?

Yes, you can have a DOT medical examination in Rhode Island or Massachusetts even if you live in another state. The medical card issued as a result of the examination is federal, and must be performed by an individual licensed by the state in which they practice.