It's a Team's Life

It's That Time of Year

It’s That Time of Year 

A DOT physical is required for every commercial driver license (CDL) holder. Dave’s medical card is about to expire. Things have been slow lately so we decided to take the time to get this task done while we had the opportunity.

For my non-trucking readers, let me give you a simple rundown of who needs a DOT physical and what it all entails.

Any person who drives a vehicle over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), hauls hazardous materials, drives a  9-15 passenger vehicle for pay is required to have a DOT physical. The standard timeframe is every 24 months; however, if a driver has medical concerns such as high blood pressure, diabetes or sleep apnea they will be required to go every 12 months or less. Also, anyone with a heart condition as well as other medical conditions will be required to get a DOT physical every year.

The main reason that drivers fail a DOT physical is due to high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, untreated sleep apnea, uncorrected vision or hearing and missing documents. Dave is required to get a DOT physical every year. And every year he passes. Why? Because, like everything else in life and in business, he is responsible for taking care of himself so that he can do what he loves to do — drive a truck.

What can a driver do to have a positive outcome to their DOT physical? Drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine and salt a couple of days before an appointment can help lower blood pressure. Fasting for 8-12 hours before a visit can help level off blood sugar levels. If you can drop some weight before the DOT physical, you might be able to avoid a sleep apnea check by shrinking your neck size. Even 10-15 pounds can made a difference. Make sure you bring a list of all medications, glasses and/or hearing aids, a CPAP compliance report and any other documents from medical professionals.

In the past, drivers would have had to go to their local DMV to present the new medical card to prove that they had complied with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) law by completing and passing a DOT physical. Beginning this year (2025), the doctor’s office will send the information to the driver’s respective state DMV electronically.

As with any type of physical, there is a cost. Each owner operator or each business that employs drivers must take on the cost of a DOT physical. On average, the cost can range from $80 to $150 dollars per physical depending on where you have your DOT physical done. Keep in mind that you are not required to have your DOT physical done in your home city/state. However, you are required to go to a doctor that has been approved to perform DOT physicals. 

Here’s to millions of safe, profitable and HEALTHY miles.

Kelly Plumb