Question about DOT Phyiscal...

themagicoen · Oct 29, 2008

Not 100% sure where I should put this so I thought I would try here first. Does anyone know the limitation on the amount of time I need between having back surgery and getting a DOT Card? Or is it just when ever I'm able to pass it? I had back surgery on 10/8, fusion L5/S1. I'm able to walk, sleep, drive, etc, just can't lift over 20lbs nor run. I'm off all pain meds. I lost my job as a Field Engineer and I can't find nothing so I'm thinking about going back driving but not sure on the dot card. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Jack_Berry · Oct 29, 2008

i am guessing it would be a carrier specific issue. although the dot physical is a 2 yr card you have been out of trucking for a while. i am sure the carrier would like to know what your physical limitations are from the doctors view.

cheri1122 · Oct 29, 2008

If the doc who did the surgery has given you the ok to return to work, and you pass a DOT physical exam, you're good to go - but are you sure you can handle the very long hours in the driver's seat?