Dot Physical Exam 

Our office is conveniently located in the same plaza as the local Drivers License office.

As a professional truck or bus driver, you are required by federal law to have a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam. This checkup ensures that you and fellow CMV drivers can handle the demanding nature of operating commercial vehicles.

Do you fall into one of these categories?

• You operate a motor vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people.

• You are paid to operate a motor vehicle designed to carry more than 8 people.

• You operate a motor vehicle with a gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight, gross vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight of over 10,000 pounds.

• You transport hazardous materials that require your vehicle to be placarded.

If so, you need a DOT Physical Exam completed by a certified medical examiner listed in the FMCSA National Registry. The exam includes a review of your health history, medications, surgeries, and a general physical examination that covers blood pressure, vision, hearing, and a urinalysis.

At the completion of the DOT Physical exam, our office provides your DOT Certificate and Long Form, according to FMCSA guidelines.

Do you have questions about your DOT physical exam? We are here to help! Call us or read our FAQ below. Our office is conveniently located for Lithonia, Stone Mountain, Snellville, and Conyers residents.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What are the acceptable blood pressure ranges?

The acceptable blood pressure ranges are:

• 139/89 or less - 2-year certification

• 140-159/90-99 - Stage 1 hypertension - 1-year certification

• 160-179/100-109 - Stage 2 hypertension - 3-month certification

• Greater than or equal to 180/110 - Stage 3 hypertension - Disqualify

• What if I have hypertension and/or take high blood pressure medication?

If you have hypertension and blood pressure less than or equal to 139/89, you may be certified for up to 1 year. If you have stage 1 or stage 2 hypertension, you may be given a one-time 3-month certificate. During that time, you must speak to your medical doctor about lowering your blood pressure to the acceptable range. When you return for certification, your blood pressure must be at or below 139/89. If you have stage 3 hypertension, you will be disqualified.

• What if I have "white coat syndrome," or I'm feeling stressed?

We understand that seeing a doctor can be stressful, and we strive to provide a relaxed environment for our patients. Additionally, the doctor will give you several chances to retest for a lower blood pressure, as office hours allow.

• What if I have diabetes?

If you have diabetes, you should be re-certified annually.

• What is being checked in the urinalysis?

The urinalysis is not a drug test. It checks for specific gravity, protein, blood, and sugar.

• Do I have to take a drug test?

Your employer may request a pre-employment drug test, which we offer. However, it is not part of the standard DOT Physical and is a separate fee.

• What if I wear hearing aid(s)?

The hearing standard requires a driver to be able to hear a forced whisper in at least one ear at 5 feet. If you are unable to pass the whisper test, an audiometric exam may be required, as it can be a more sensitive test. We do not offer these exams in-office, but ask you to bring, or have your record sent to our office before your appointment.

• What if I had a Coronary Artery