Do non-CDL drivers need a DOT physical?
Even if you are not required to hold a CDL, you must undergo a DOT physical and maintain a valid medical card if you operate a commercial vehicle.
The only difference for non-CDL drivers who operate a commercial vehicle is that they do not have to submit the medical card to their state driver’s licensing agency.
Do you need a DOT physical for a CDL permit?
Yes, potential CDL candidates will need to pass a DOT physical before they are allowed to take the CDL permit exam.
What does a DOT physical consist of?
The DOT physical is meant to be a comprehensive look at your overall health. You should expect several tests and a general medical examination during your visit. This will include:
Vision Test
To pass the vision test, you need to have a minimum of 20/40 visual acuity in both eyes. You are allowed to wear contact lenses or eyeglasses to meet this standard. Your peripheral vision will also be checked. The minimum peripheral vision to pass is at least 70 inches in both eyes.
Since 2018, drivers with monocular vision (impaired vision in one eye) may be able to receive a medical card despite not meeting the vision standards in both eyes. A separate evaluation by an optometrist, ophthalmologist, or your medical examiner if they are qualified, will be conducted. While you no longer need to apply for an exemption to receive your medical card, having a monocular vision will result in a maximum 12-month medical card rather than the standard 24 months.
Hearing Test
The hearing test will check whether you can hear a whisper from five feet away. The examiner will stand behind you at least five feet away and whisper a short word or set of numbers and letters. You will need to repeat this back to the examiner.
An examiner may instead use a device to measure your hearing, which will check that you can hear below 40 decibels in your good ear. Hearing aids can be worn during the hearing test for either test method.
Blood Pressure and Pulse
Your examiner will take readings of your blood pressure and pulse rate. Passing blood pressure is anything below 140/90. The pulse rate is used to check for an irregular heartbeat.
Urine Test
You will need to provide a urine sample, which may or may not be tested for drugs. The DOT does not require a drug test during the physical, though you will need to undergo random drug screening if you hold a CDL or are hired into a federal driving position. Many employers will also require you to complete a pre-employment drug screen during the DOT medical exam. Keep in mind that marijuana use is a disqualifying condition, whether it shows on a drug screen or you disclose it verbally to the examiner.
The urine test is also used to identify other health conditions, such as diabetes. Since 2018, insulin-regulated diabetes will not prevent you from receiving a medical card. However, you will be required to show treatment status from your doctor and will be issued a medical card for no more than 12 months instead of the usual 24 months.
Sleep Apnea Test
This test will not be performed at the exam but might be a requirement before you can pass. The following symptoms usually lead to a required sleep apnea test:
- Daytime fatigue/drowsiness
- Headaches in the morning
- Sore throat/dry mouth upon waking
- Gasping while sleeping
- Heavy snoring
If you are found to have sleep apnea, treatment options vary. You may be advised to lose weight and use a mouth guard to improve your breathing while asleep. Moderate to severe sleep apnea may require a CPAP machine, which delivers steady air pressure through a mask and nosepiece.
Physical Requirements
The examiner will perform an overall check of your health and body appearance. Specific checks include:
- Eyes — looking for glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration
- Ears — looking for perforated eardrums, tympanic membrane scarring
- Throat and mouth — looking for swallowing or breathing problems
- Heart — looking for heart murmurs or irregular sounds
- Chest and lungs — looking for evidence of respiratory issues
- Abdomen — looking for muscle weakness, liver enlargement, visceral issues
- Vascular system — looking for an abnormal pulse, varicose veins, and carotid problems
- Genito-urinary system — looking for hernias
- Extremities — looking for deformities or defects
- Spine and musculoskeletal system — looking for deformities or pain points
- Neurology — looking for reflex abilities and signs of impairment
- Medical history and prescriptions — you will be asked to disclose any prescriptions you are currently taking, current medical conditions, and prior surgeries
Any signs of medical issues which could impair you’re driving may require you to undergo additional tests or treatment before you can be issued a medical card.
