What You Should Expect When Getting Your DOT Physical Exam
The Department of Transportation requires some drivers to get physicals every 24 Months to make sure they are healthy enough to drive. You are required to get a DOT physical and carry a DOT medical certificate when you drive a commercial vehicle OR:
- You are paid to operate a motor vehicle that holds 9 to 15 passengers
- You drive the vehicle more than 75 miles from where you report to work you operate this vehicle for interstate commerce purposes
- You operate a motor vehicle with a gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight, gross vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight of at least 10,001 pounds; you operate this vehicle for interstate commerce purposes You transport hazardous materials in certain quantities.
Passing a DOT physical is of utmost importance if you drive What is considered to be a commercial vehicle part time or full time. Since March of 2015 we have begun to perform DOT physical exams with a whole new set of criteria from the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). More than ever before, the FMCSA is focused on insuring the public that those who drive for a living are healthy enough to perform their duties safely. The best way to make sure that you are healthy enough to drive is to live a healthy lifestyle.