DOT Physicals

If you drive a commercial vehicle, a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical ensures you’re fit for the road and is required by law. At Summit Health Family and Urgent Care in Haltom City, Texas, Louis Graham, FNP, ENP, is a DOT-approved examiner and checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, blood glucose, and overall health. To get your commercial driver certification, book your DOT physical today or schedule it online at your convenience.

What is a DOT physical? 

If you drive a commercial vehicle over 10,000 pounds, transport hazardous materials, regularly drive eight or more passengers for income, or more than 15 people at a time, you need a DOT physical.

The DOT requires the physical to ensure drivers are physically and mentally fit to safely operate large vehicles. Only DOT-approved Certified Medical Examiners — like Louis and the experts at Summit Health Family and Urgent Care— are qualified to conduct these exams. 

Once completed, your provider submits your results to the Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS), and you’ll get a copy for your records.

What can I expect during a DOT physical? 

Think of your DOT physical at Summit Health Family and Urgent Care as a thorough check-up to ensure you’re road-ready. Here’s what happens during your exam:

• Blood pressure and pulse check: Have high blood pressure? You may need more frequent check-ins.
• Hearing test: Can you hear critical sounds like honking horns and emergency vehicle sirens at required distances?
• Medical history review: Louis examines existing and potential conditions that could impact your driving, such as diabetes or seizures.
• Full physical exam: Louis assesses your mobility, balance, reflexes, and overall health.
• Vision test: Do you wear contacts or glasses? Bring them along for your full vision test.

The team also sets you up with a urinalysis to screen for underlying health issues like diabetes and kidney disease, as well as drug use. In addition, Louis performs a physical exam to check your height, weight, skin, spine, joints, reflexes, chest, and lungs.

What should I bring to my DOT physical? 

When you come to the office in Haltom City, bring your medical records, a list of medications you take, and glasses or contacts if you wear them when you drive. 

The Summit Health Family and Urgent Care team helps you fill out the required paperwork and prepare it for submission into the electronic system.  

How often do I need a DOT physical? 

After you pass your DOT physical, the certification is good for two years, but if you have a condition that needs closer monitoring, like hypertension or diabetes, you may need more frequent check-ups, typically annually, to keep your license valid.

To ensure you’re safe and certified to drive a commercial vehicle, call to set up a DOT physical or use the online scheduling option.