How DOT Physicals Are Different From Regular Physical Exams

Most people are familiar with regular physical exams, which are comprehensive examinations to evaluate your overall health. A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is different. Dr. Laurie Welton at The Infectious Diseases Consultants of the Treasure Coast provides a wide range of medical services, including Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals. She has two convenient office locations in Vero Beach and Sebastian, FL.

What You Need To Know About DOT Physicals

A DOT physical is a specialized exam given to people who are applying for a job with the Department of Transportation. They are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or FMCSA, for drivers of commercial vehicles, to obtain a CDL or commercial driver’s license.

A DOT physical contains several steps, including:

• A vision check: your vision has to be at least 20/40 in both eyes, with or without corrective glasses. You need to also distinguish between different colors to pass the exam.
• A hearing check: you must be able to hear a “forced whisper” from less than five feet away, with or without hearing aids.
• A blood pressure and pulse rate check–to evaluate your overall health and determine whether you can perform a job requiring long hours in a seated position.
• Ordering laboratory testing–including a urinalysis to check for underlying medical conditions that require treatment.

A physical examination is another important part of a DOT physical. Your doctor will examine your:

• General appearance, including weight, tremors, or drug/alcohol indications
• Mouth and throat, including breathing and swallowing
• Chest and lungs, including respiration
• Abdomen and organs, including any hernias or masses
• Vascular system, including pulse, and blood flow
• Extremities, including injury, damage, or weakness
• Skeletal system, including tenderness or limitation of motion
• The nervous system, including speech, reflexes, and balance

You will also need to be current on immunizations. Your doctor may administer vaccines for:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Polio/Tetanus/Typhoid
• Influenza

Want To Know More About DOT Physicals?

To find out more about DOT physicals and how they are different from regular physicals, call Dr. Laurie Welton at The Infectious Diseases Consultants of the Treasure Coast. You can reach her in both the Vero Beach and Sebastian, FL, locations by calling (772) 299-7009, so call today.