DOT Physicals in Georgia
Finding A DOT Medical Examiner Near Me In Georgia
Your commercial driver’s license (CDL) is the first step to a career in driving commercial vehicles, but before getting behind the wheel of a truck, you will need to obtain a DOT physical exam. You may have a few questions about it. What is the DOT exam? Why is it necessary? Where can I find a DOT medical examiner in Georgia? Can I use any doctor’s office, or must I use someone specific? At Team CME, we’re here to guide you through these questions so you can successfully get your DOT medical card here in Georgia.
What Is The DOT Medical Exam?
Commercial motor vehicle operators keep our economy running and our supply lines open. Without a trucker carrying goods to retail stores, we couldn’t buy food, clothing, or basic household necessities.
Due to your vehicle’s unusual weight and size, commercial vehicle operation can be risky. Accidents in densely populated areas could be devastating. The Department of Transportation (DOT) understands the risks and works to make sure commercial operators drive sober, healthy, and responsibly. The DOT physical helps catch medical conditions that might alter your driving, like heart conditions, seizures, and others.
After passing the exam, the DOT medical card is generally valid for two years, though some conditions may necessitate more frequent testing.
DOT Drug Screening in Georgia
A DOT drug test is not part of the DOT physical. You will provide a urine sample for the medical examiner to perform a urinalysis. This demonstrates if there is excessive protien, blood, or sugar in your urine. The urinalysis does not test for marijuana, narcotics, or other medications.
However, CDL drivers may undergo drug testing in the following circumstances:
- When applying for work (pre-employment)
- As part of the DOT-mandated random drug testing protocol
- After accidents or injuries to prove you were sober at the time of the incident
- If you give your employer reason to suspect you’re using on the job
Can My Primary Doctor Issue a DOT Medical Card?
Doctors certified by the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners can certainly offer this service to their patients. If your primary care doctor is not a DOT certified medical examiner, you will need to look elsewhere for a DOT physical, and Team CME has you covered. We have contracts with DOT medical examiners all over the country, including Georgia. If you need a “DOT physical near me” or a “CDL medical examiner in Georgia,” we make it easy to get help. Simply check out the locator tool on our website.
What Can I Do To Prepare For My DOT Medical Exam in Georgia?
- ID: Be ready to prove your identity with either a standard or commercial driver’s license. If this isn’t available, any other form of photo ID is acceptable.
- ETA: To get in and out of the doctor’s office quicker, show up 15 minutes early to fill out paperwork for your appointment.
- Records: It helps to bring medical records of ongoing health issues so the examiner can determine if your condition poses a risk. However, many conditions can be controlled with proper lifestyle choices and medication. Talk to a doctor before you assume that you’ll be disqualified from getting your CDL and DOT medical card.