What to Expect During My DOT Exam

For commercial truck drivers, passing a DOT medical examination is mandatory. However, many get nervous not knowing what to expect during the exam with a chiropractor near you in Tracy, CA. Understanding the process can help ease worries and ensure you’re fully prepared. Here's what you can expect from a DOT physical at Ringer Chiropractic.

Purpose of the DOT Exam

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires medical exams for commercial vehicle operators to ensure driver health and ability. Certified medical examiners, including chiropractors, assess a person’s fitness to operate vehicles, like semi-trucks or buses, safely on the road. Exams are also needed to obtain or renew commercial driver’s licenses (CDL).

What is Checked During the Exam?

Your chiropractor will review your health history, medications, vision, hearing, reflexes, and mobility. A urine sample screens for diabetes and high blood pressure. The chiropractor will also measure:

• Blood pressure: must be below 140/90
• Pulse rate: should be between 50 to 100 beats per minute
• Respiratory rate: normal is 12 to 18 breaths per minute
• Vision: at least 20/40 acuity in each eye with glasses/contacts if needed
• Hearing: must be adequate to communicate
• Gripping strength: ensures the ability to secure cargo

In addition, you’ll be checked for:

• Spinal flexibility
• Range of motion in arms and legs
• Reflexes and motor coordination
• Balance, posture, and walking
• Heart, lung, and abdomen exam

Past medical records may be requested to assess health conditions like diabetes, seizures, sleep apnea, or musculoskeletal disorders. Candidates must meet guidelines to pass.

What Happens After the Exam?

The chiropractor will review the results and determine if you meet DOT health standards for operating commercial vehicles. If you pass, you will be issued a DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate showing that you’re physically qualified. First-time applicants will receive a 24-month card. Renewals may qualify for 24 months or less depending on health factors. If you don’t pass, the chiropractor will explain which health benchmarks weren’t met. You can take steps to improve your health and undergo another exam when ready.

Preparing for a Stress-Free Exam

Get plenty of rest, eat a healthy meal, take medication as usual, and wear loose clothing for your exam. Bring a list of your current medications, eyeglasses or contacts, and any pertinent medical records. Be candid when answering questions about your health history and conditions. Thorough exams keep the roads safe for you, passengers, and other drivers.

Schedule an Appointment With Us Today

By understanding what to expect, your DOT exam can proceed smoothly. This important step verifies that commercial drivers have the skills, vision, hearing, and physical health to perform this demanding job safely. When you need a DOT physical, schedule one with Ringer Chiropractic today.