DOT physical guide for commercial drivers
Everything you need to walk into your appointment ready: who can do the exam, what to bring, what gets checked and how long the card lasts.
Who can give you a DOT physical
The exam must be done by a licensed medical examiner who is listed on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. That includes medical doctors (MD), doctors of osteopathy (DO), physician assistants (PA), advanced practice nurses (APN) and doctors of chiropractic (DC). Before you book, ask the clinic whether the examiner on duty that day is on the registry, or look the examiner up on the National Registry.
What to bring
- A government photo ID, such as your driver's license or CDL.
- Your glasses or contact lenses and any hearing aids you use.
- A list of your medications with doses, and the name of the doctor who prescribes them.
- Records from your own doctor for any ongoing condition, such as diabetes, heart conditions or sleep apnea treatment.
- Your current medical examiner's certificate, if you have one.
What the exam checks
You fill out a health history form, then the examiner checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure and pulse, runs a urine test and does a physical exam. The urine test looks for signs of conditions such as diabetes and kidney problems.
- Vision: at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts.
- Hearing: you must be able to hear a forced whisper from five feet away in your better ear, with or without a hearing aid.
- Blood pressure: the examiner decides how long to certify you based on your reading.
How long the card lasts
A DOT physical is valid for up to 24 months. The examiner can certify you for a shorter time when a condition, such as high blood pressure, needs monitoring. Put your next exam date in your phone as soon as you pass, so you can book before the old card expires.
After your exam
If you pass, the examiner gives you a copy of your results and a medical examiner's certificate. Keep a copy with you. Ask the examiner whether your state licensing agency needs anything from you.
Find a clinic
Search by city or ZIP on the home page, or browse DOT physical clinics by state. Most clinics post their hours, and many are open evenings or weekends.
Reviewed November 13, 2026. Requirements come from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. See the FMCSA DOT medical exam page.