DOT Physicals

Humble Family Practice

Family Medicine located in Humble, TX & Atascocita, TX

If you drive a commercial motor vehicle, or would like to, you’re required by the federal government to get a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. Humble Family Practice is certified to provide the mandated DOT physical. Call the Humble or Atascocita, Texas, office today to schedule your physical, or book an appointment online.

DOT Physicals Q & A

Why Do I Need a DOT Physical?

When you’re driving a large vehicle from town to town or state to state, you’re the most important safety feature of that vehicle. The Department of Transportation has created a set of guidelines that determines whether you’re healthy enough to keep safe on the road. Only licensed medical examiners, like the practitioners at Humble Family Practice, can provide the exam and a valid medical certificate.

What Can I Expect During a DOT Physical?

The practitioners at Humble Family Practice conduct a thorough examination when you come in for your DOT physical. You can expect the same care and attention that you would expect during your annual physical.

During your physical, your practitioner examines your:

General appearance
Heart and lungs
Reflexes
Ears, mouth, and throat
Eyes
Limbs

There are also specific areas that need to be covered during the exam to ensure you can safely operate a commercial vehicle. These areas include:

Vision: To pass the DOT physical exam, you must have 20/40 vision in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses. If you use corrective eyewear, you must wear them during your examination so your practitioner can properly assess your vision.
Blood Pressure: Your blood pressure and heart rate are checked for risk of cardiovascular issues. To pass the exam, your blood pressure, if high, must not interfere with your ability to safely operate a vehicle.
Hearing: Your hearing is also tested during the DOT exam. To pass the exam, you must be able to hear a forced whisper from five feet away.

Your practitioner also conducts a urinalysis to assess your risk of diabetes.

What Do I Need to Bring to My DOT Physical?

For your practitioner to provide an accurate assessment of your health, you need to provide certain documents. This may include:

A list of your medications
Past blood work
Your last hemoglobin A1C test, if you have diabetes

specialist-referrals: If you have a heart condition, you need to provide your DOT examiner with a note from your cardiologist stating that your heart health won’t interfere with your ability to drive safely.

How Long is My Medical Certificate Valid?

A DOT medical certificate is valid for two years. If you need a renewal, a practitioner at Humble Family Practice can provide the necessary medical exam to renew your certificate.

If you need a DOT physical, call Humble Family Practice, or schedule an appointment using the online booking button.

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