FMCSA DOT physical exams for commercial drivers in Manteca and Ripon, CA, performed by Dr. Matt Durant, a Certified Medical Examiner on the National Registry (NRCME). Call to book.
If you are searching for a DOT physical near you, Valley Chiropractic Center performs FMCSA DOT physical exams at our Manteca and Ripon, California offices. Your exam is completed by Dr. Matt Durant, D.C., a Certified Medical Examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), so your results are reported directly to the NRCME and you leave with a copy of your DOT medical card.
DOT physicals for CDL and commercial drivers in Manteca and Ripon
A DOT physical exam is required for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers under FMCSA regulations, and you need one to obtain a CDL. Whether you drive locally around San Joaquin County or run longer routes, our Certified Medical Examiner can complete your exam and help keep you safely on the road.
DOT physicals are scheduled by phone. Call our Manteca or Ripon office and our team will book your exam and let you know what to bring.
A DOT physical exam is required for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers under FMCSA regulations. Its purpose is to make sure commercial drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to safely operate a CMV in all types of conditions. You need a DOT physical, and the resulting DOT medical card, to obtain a CDL.
Who needs a DOT physical?
You need a DOT physical at least every two years if you transport hazardous materials that require a hazmat placard, are paid to operate a motor vehicle that carries more than eight passengers, operate a motor vehicle that carries more than 15 passengers, or operate a motor vehicle with a gross combination weight rating of over 10,000 pounds.
What does the DOT physical exam include?
First you fill out a Medical Examination Report Form that covers your health history. You can get the form from FMCSA and complete it before you arrive. Next you are given a complete physical examination that tests your hearing, vision, blood pressure, coordination and reflexes, and other health indicators. Even if you are not getting a drug screening, you will have a urinalysis to measure your blood sugar level and other signs of underlying medical conditions. When the exam is complete and you are cleared to continue driving, we report your results electronically to the NRCME and you receive a copy of your DOT medical card. You will need to mail or deliver your documents to the DMV.
What do I need to bring to my DOT physical?
If you filled out the Medical Examination Report Form ahead of time, bring it with you. Other items you may need to bring include medical records from your regular doctor and any specialists you see, your most recent lab results for any medical condition that requires blood draws, a list of all prescription medications you take including the dosage and timing, and any auditory or visual aids you need while driving, such as prescription glasses or a hearing aid.
Do DOT physicals include a drug test?
DOT physical exam requirements do not include a drug test, although your employer may require drug screening.
How long is a DOT medical card valid?
In general, a DOT medical card is valid for 24 months, so you can expect to have a DOT physical at least every two years. In some cases, if you have a medical condition that needs to be monitored, the medical examiner may issue a certificate for less than 24 months. If you have certain medical conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, you may need a DOT physical exam every year. If you have a very serious medical condition that needs monitoring, such as very high blood pressure, you may need a physical every three months.
What happens if I fail a DOT physical?
DOT physicals determine whether you are healthy enough to safely drive a CMV. If you have a medical condition that is manageable and you can show that you are under the care of a medical professional, you, like the majority of CMV drivers, should be able to pass the exam and receive a certificate. Some medical conditions that may disqualify you include uncorrectable vision or hearing loss, poorly managed diabetes mellitus, heart disease, or lung disease, epilepsy, narcolepsy, alcoholism or drug addiction, and loss of an arm, leg, foot, or hand. Failing your DOT physical will not necessarily disqualify you from driving. The FMCSA grants exemptions for some conditions, known as variances, as long as the driver can prove they are capable of operating a CMV without posing a threat to others. These exceptions can be used to exempt CMV drivers with conditions like diabetes and vision or hearing loss.
