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DOT Physicals in New Mexico

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Finding A DOT Exam Near Me In New Mexico

The Department Of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for protecting our public roads and railways. To prevent unnecessary and sometimes fatal accidents, they expect commercial driver’s license (CDL) drivers to avoid substance use and be healthy enough to drive safely. Part of their screening process is the DOT medical exam.

Do I Need A DOT Physical?

CDL drivers operate Commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). Common CDL jobs include:

  • Truck Drivers: Truck drivers keep store shelves stocked so we have access to clothes, food, home goods, and more.
  • Bus Drivers: Bus drivers ensure everyone has access to a quality education and the ability to get to work. Buses provide an inexpensive option for travel.
  • Hazmat Drivers: Hazmat drivers take oil to refineries, gas to gas stations, toxic byproducts to safe disposal facilities, and raw goods to manufacturers to create products like plastic.

    Why Do I Need An Exam?

    Employers don’t want to hire an individual with epilepsy or someone who will fall asleep while driving due to narcolepsy. The DOT physical screens operators for physical conditions or medications that make it unsafe for a trucker to drive. Some conditions are necessarily disqualifying, but many can be controlled by medication and lifestyle. Your DOT medical examiner will be able to tell you if your case is severe enough to prevent you from working a CDL job. The DOT medical card proves you passed the examination.

    How Long Is The DOT Medical Card Valid In New Mexico?

    With average to good health, you’ll have the exam every two years. Ongoing medical conditions may necessitate more frequent DOT physical renewals.

    How Long Is The DOT Exam?

    Appointments usually take 30-45 minutes. Arriving 10-15 minutes early to do the paperwork will expedite the process.

    Note: Your appointment could take longer if your health situation proves more challenging.

    If you have a condition requiring a specialist’s approval to certify you’re safe to drive, this may delay things. Bring medical records to your DOT exam appointment. You should also bring documentation from your specialist(s) certifying that you’re approved to drive.

    Do They Require A DOT Drug Screening in New Mexico?

    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 potential employer can request that a pre-employment drug test be performed at the same time as the DOT physical exam. 

    Medical marijuana, legally or illegally purchased, is a banned substance for all CDL drivers. If you feel you need this for your health, a CDL operator job isn’t a good fit for you. Regardless of why you take it, it can hinder your ability to drive safely.

    How Do I Find A Certified DOT Medical Examiner Near Me In New Mexico?

    If you’re ready to search out a “DOT physical near me,” Team CME can help. We have contracted with certified clinics nationwide who can provide these services. Use our locator tool to find a DOT medical examiner in New Mexico. With the help of your local clinic, you’ll be on the road in no time.

    Do I Need To Bring Anything To The Exam?

    You’ll want to bring adaptive devices to your appointment so the doctor can make sure your prescriptions are still adequate. These may include:

    • Prescription glasses or contacts
    • Hearing aids

    Your driver’s license or any form of photo ID will work to get your DOT medical card in Colorado, but you will need both the CDL and the medical card to be employable.