DOT Physicals in Florida

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How Do I Find A DOT Medical Exam Center Near Me In Florida?

If you want to operate a commercial vehicle, you’ll need a DOT medical card and a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. Transitioning into a new job or starting a new career altogether is complex enough. You don’t want the process to drag on due to delays getting your DOT physical here in Florida.

Fortunately, Team CME is connected to hundreds of clinics in the U.S., including DOT physical providers in Florida. That means no lengthy waiting times getting an appointment for a DOT exam/DOT medical card near home. Our “DOT physical near me” finder will pinpoint the nearest location, and you can book your appointment today.

Why do I need a DOT exam in Florida?

Commercial drivers must meet a certain standard to be safe on the road. The Department of Transportation ensures that CDL drivers, like passenger bus drivers with more than 15 occupants, drivers transporting hazardous materials, etc., are in good physical health. After all, a health or drug-related incident on the job could mean mass casualties.

Your Florida DOT medical examiner can help assess health risks like heart disease, epilepsy, vision problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, and hearing loss.

Will I need a DOT physical renewal?

As a general rule, DOT physicals renew every 24 months. Drivers with complex medical conditions may need to recertify more frequently to maintain their DOT medical card.

Do I need a DOT exam?

Your employer can let you know if the DOT medical exam is a requirement for your position. Likely candidates include:

  • Drivers of vehicles that weigh more than 26,000 pounds
  • Those driving more than 15 passengers
  • Anyone transporting hazardous materials

For more specifics, you can check the U.S. Department of Transportation website to verify whether you are required to get a DOT medical exam.

Will my DOT exam in Florida include drug screening?

No. A urine sample is needed to perform a urinalysis. This demonstrates if there is excessive protien, blood, or sugar in your urine. It does not test for marijuana, narcotics, or other medications. Your employer or potential employer can request that a drug test be performed at the same time as the DOT physical exam. 

As a commercial vehicle driver, expect regular drug and alcohol testing as part of your employment. After a crash, your employer will have you tested to ensure you were clean and sober at the time of the accident. You’ll likely need random drug tests throughout the year, as well.

If you cause your employer to suspect alcohol or drug use on the job, they can have you tested. If you fail or refuse to complete the test, you won’t be able to drive commercial vehicles until you complete a substance abuse program and have another CDL medical exam. You’ll also need regular follow-up testing. 

The DOT exam clinic locator helps you find “DOT drug screening near me” so you can get tested and return to work.

What’s the difference between a DOT medical exam and a CDL exam?

The DOT medical exam is separate from your CDL (commercial driver’s license) exam, but you need both to drive a commercial vehicle. The CDL exam qualifies you to get your license, but it doesn’t assess your health, nor does it allow you to get behind the wheel yet. The DOT physical ensures that your health is up to snuff. It qualifies you for a DOT medical card and allows you to start driving commercial vehicles.

Team CME is committed to getting you on the job (or back on the job) where you belong. We provide a no-hassle tool to find a qualified, affordable provider in Florida for your DOT medical exam and drug testing. Our locator will guide you to the closest Florida DOT physical provider.