At Slym Wellness Clinic in Jacksonville, FL, we understand the significance of DOT physicals in the commercial driving industry. The DOT exam is crucial in ensuring road safety for everyone involved. We offer DOT physicals to provide certification that drivers are physically fit to handle the demanding life on the road. Whether you are a seasoned or a new driver, our clinic is here to provide the necessary examination and support. Our DOT physical exam is designed to emphasize the vital role of road safety and promote driver readiness.
What Does the Department of Transportation (DOT) Require for Commercial Drivers?
The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA) require that all drivers holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) license must have a DOT physical, complete a medical examination report, and successfully complete all requirements of the DOT physical to be issued a CDL medical card, the card is valid for 24 months and must be renewed every 2 years with a physical.
What Is a DOT Physical?
A DOT physical is a comprehensive medical evaluation designed for commercial driving industry individuals. Mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), this examination ensures that drivers can handle the health challenges and rigorous demands of a commercial driving profession, whether long hours on the road, lifting heavy cargo, or managing other strenuous activities.
Benefits of the DOT Physical
Ensures Public Safety
A primary objective of the DOT physical is to guarantee that commercial drivers are fit and don’t have medical conditions that might impede their ability to drive safely. This contributes to public safety by reducing the likelihood of accidents due to medical incapacitation.
Identifies Undiagnosed Conditions
Through the physical, some drivers may become aware of health conditions they were previously unaware of. Early detection can lead to early treatment and better health outcomes.
Promotes Overall Driver Health
The DOT physical examines various aspects of a driver’s health, ensuring they maintain a certain standard of health. This can motivate drivers to adopt healthier lifestyles to meet the requirements.
Legal Compliance
Having an up-to-date DOT physical examination and carrying the required medical certificate is a requirement for many commercial drivers. Completing the physical ensures compliance with the law, helping to avoid potential fines or penalties.
Reduces Employer Liability
For companies that employ commercial drivers, ensuring that their drivers pass the DOT physical can reduce potential liabilities related to accidents due to medical issues.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that a driver has passed a DOT physical can offer peace of mind to the driver, their employer, and the general public, as there’s a level of assurance about the driver’s health and fitness for the job.
Consistency in Standards
The DOT physical has standardized criteria that all examiners follow. This means that drivers across the country are held to the same health standards, ensuring a consistent level of safety on the roads.
Frequently Asked Questions About DOT Physicals
What do I need to bring to my DOT physical appointment?
- Eyeglasses (bring prescription)
- If you are on a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, a printout of the 30-day usage report is required.
- List of medications
- Clearance letters or physician-related documentation
Persons should also be prepared to discuss with the examiner your health history, including past or recent illnesses or other information related to your physical exam.
Who conducts our DOT physicals?
As required by law, commercial drivers must undergo a DOT physical exam to ensure they are fit to operate their vehicles safely. The examiner who conducts these exams is an important factor in ensuring the safety of the driver and the public.
Jason Jacobson, APRN with Slym Wellness Clinic, is a certified medical examiner in the FMCSA’s National Registry. He performs DOT physicals for all CDL drivers and non-CDL drivers. You can find his office off Baymeadows central to the city.
What if I fail the DOT physical?
If an individual does not meet all the requirements for a medical certificate, they may be provided with a temporary medical certificate or given guidance on what steps to take to become compliant. The temporary medical certificate would allow the individual to continue operating under certain restrictions until they can meet all of the requirements needed for a complete medical certificate. The guidance on the next steps would be specific to the individual’s situation and could include suggestions, such as additional medical testing or treatment.
How long does the exam take?
At Slym Wellness Clinic, a DOT physical examination usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on individual circumstances.
What is exactly included in a DOT physical?
As of May 2014, all CDL drivers must receive a DOT physical from a certified medical professional (CRME) that is listed on the FMCSA’s website only. A DOT physical exam includes a health history, vision, and hearing test, and physical exam. A urine sample will also be taken to test for protein, glucose, specific gravity (urine-to-water ratio), and whether blood is present.
How much does a DOT physical cost?
If you are a commercial driver, you must have a DOT physical exam to maintain your commercial driver’s license. The cost of a DOT physical with urinalysis is $99.
How can you get started with us?
Unlike other clinics where you sit and wait hours and hours for your CDL physical exam, we value your time! From start to finish, the CDL physical should take no longer than 30 minutes to complete. You can get back on the road as quickly as possible. Just be sure to bring the current medication list with you. We provide the medical forms for you, or you can print them off at your convenience from the FMCSA website. Simply bring the forms with you to your DOT physical appointment.
Schedule a DOT Physical at Slym Wellness Clinic in Jacksonville, FL
At Slym Wellness Clinic in Jacksonville, FL, we provide DOT physicals to ensure that commercial drivers meet the necessary physical requirements to safely operate motor vehicles. For our DOT physical exams, we understand the specific regulations and standards required for receiving a commercial driver’s license (CDL). As a matter of fact, this exam is mandatory for CDL and other commercial drivers, which is why we encourage all drivers to visit our clinic. Don’t hesitate to call us at (904)788-3747 or contact us online to schedule your DOT exam today.