DOT Physicals

If you are a commercial driver who needs DOT physical for work, the experts at A+ Athlete Sports Medicine in Robbinsville, New Jersey, are here to help. Board-certified sports medicine physician Adam Redlich, MD and his outstanding team provide this service for drivers. Call the office or use the online scheduler to make an appointment.

What are DOT physicals? 

DOT physicals are qualification exams performed by a certified healthcare provider that are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The goal of these exams is to improve safety for commercial drivers. 

Who needs a DOT physical?

If you operate a commercial motor vehicle then you will likely need a DOT physical.  Commercial motor vehicles include motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating, or gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight of 4536 kg (10,001 lbs) or more, which ever is greater; or is designed or used to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation; or is designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers, including the driver, and has not used to transport passengers for compensation; or is used in transporting material found by the secretary of transportation to be hazardous under 49 U.S.C. 5103 and transported in a quantity requiring placarding under regulations prescribed by the secretary under 49 CFR, subtitle B, chapter I, subchapter C.

What happens during a DOT physical? 

During your DOT physical at A+ Athlete Sports Medicine, we will check your vital signs like height, weight, blood pressure and heart rate. We will also check a urine sample to look for things like protein, blood, sugar and hydration status. In addition, we will check your hearing and vision. It is important that if you use any devices to help you see or hear like contact lenses, glasses or hearing aides you bring these with you. Your doctor will also review your medical and surgical histories, any medications you are on and any potential symptoms your are having. Your doctor will then complete a thorough, head to toe,  physical examination. This includes listening to your heartbeat and breathing and evaluating your reflexes, eyes, ears, nose, throat, abdomen, and limbs, etc. 

What should I expect after my DOT physical?

After your physical, your doctor will review the results with you. If you’re in good health for certification, your doctor will complete the required FMCSA forms and give you a copy for your records. If you need further follow-up prior to being certified, they may refer you to another physician for treatment of that problem and ask you to return once it has been addressed. 

How often do I need a DOT physical?

The maximum length of certification for the FMCSA is two years. Certification periods may vary depending on any medications or medical conditions you may have that require closer follow-up so in certain circumstances the length of your certification may be shorter than two years.

Schedule your DOT physical at A+ Athlete Sports Medicine by calling the office or booking online today.