For businesses in the transportation industry, driver safety is the top priority. To ensure public safety, the Department of Transportation (DOT) requires commercial drivers to pass a regular medical exam. These DOT physicals are mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to confirm that your team is physically fit for the demands of the road.
At Minnesota Occupational Health (MOH), our certified examiners provide the high-standard care you need to stay compliant, keep your fleet moving and protect your most valuable asset: your drivers.
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What Is a DOT Physical?
A DOT physical is a health check required by law for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. The goal is to ensure every driver can safely meet the high demands of the road. These exams protect the driver, your business and everyone else on the highway.
Only a certified DOT medical examiner listed can perform these tests. Our team at MOH consists of experts who understand these complex rules, ensuring your drivers are medically fit for duty.
Which Drivers Need a DOT Physical?
Not every employee needs this exam, but it is mandatory for those who operate certain vehicles. Your drivers must have a valid DOT medical card if they:
- Carry hazardous materials that require a placard on the vehicle
- Drive vehicles with a combined gross vehicle weight or weight rating of over 10,000 pounds in interstate commerce
- Transport more than eight people for money
- Transport more than 15 people (including the driver), even if not for money
What to Expect During the Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide
We focus on making the process as smooth as possible for your employees so they can get back to work quickly. Here is what happens during a typical visit:
Vital signs check: The examiner checks blood pressure and pulse rate to look for underlying risks.
Vision and hearing tests: Drivers must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses); have a 70-degree-plus field of vision in each eye; be able to recognize traffic signals and devices with standard red, green and amber colors; and be able to hear a “forced whisper” at 5 feet.
Physical examination: The doctor checks the driver’s general health, including their lungs, spine and limbs.
Mental stability and alertness: We assess cognitive function and alertness to ensure drivers are mentally prepared for the stresses of the transportation industry.
Vehicle operation: A focused review evaluates the driver’s coordination and physical ability to maintain steady, safe control of their vehicle under various conditions.
The most common cause of a “pending” DOT status is missing documentation. To ensure your drivers are certified as quickly as possible, we help your team arrive prepared. We provide clear checklists so drivers bring the necessary medical records, medication lists or specialist clearances—such as diabetes or cardiac records—to their appointment.
What to Bring
- Current or expired medical card for re-certification
- For CPAP users, bring a log of use for one year and provide the date of the last medical examination for its use
- Full bladder for urine testing
- Healthcare documents, including medical procedures and medications in the last five years
- Hearing aid (if needed)
- Medical releases or documentation for illnesses, conditions and/or injuries you have been treated for
- State photo ID
- Visual aids (glasses or contacts)
- Waivers or exemptions for any medical reasons
By ensuring your employees have the required documentation in hand, we can complete the exam in a single visit, reducing downtime and getting your fleet back on the road immediately.
DOT Physicals at Minnesota Occupational Health
Minnesota Occupational Health provides a streamlined and clinically driven approach to workforce safety for businesses in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. With five convenient locations—Coon Rapids, Eagan, Shakopee, St. Paul/Midway and Woodbury—we make it easy for employers to access high-quality occupational health services, including DOT physical exams, that keep your employees safe, healthy and productive.
Let Minnesota Occupational Health connect you with the occupational health services you need. Call (651) 968-5300 or contact us today to learn more about our services.