Panther says on thier ad that they hire for cargo vans with no cdl required, but I would suggest at least getting the Class C and Hazmat so your options would be open in that field. Now on the dot physical part I don't know, but I do know that most carriers offer them at the oreintation. I'll try to find out.
Jack is correct in calling for the most up to date available information. It is my understanding that you will not need a cdl for operating a van. I do believe however you must pass a physical and a drug screen.
Hope that helps.
Churchmouse,
Terrryandrene told me that to lease on with FedEx Custom Critical a CDL C with Hazmat endorsement was required. They also seem to think that some the smaller carriers want require the CDL. Hope that helps at least a lil.