DOT Physicals in Rhode Island
Finding A DOT Testing Center Near Me In Rhode Island?
You need a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical if you operate a commercial vehicle. You’ve got enough on your plate working, transitioning into a new position, or applying for jobs. The last thing you need is to get bogged down by your DOT physical here in Rhode Island.
Luckily, Team CME works with hundreds of clinics countrywide, including DOT physical providers in Rhode Island. That means you can get an appointment quickly for a DOT exam near your home or business. Try our “DOT medical card near me” finder for local clinics and make your appointment today.
Why do I need a DOT exam in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island DOT medical examiner can catch dangerous conditions like an untreated heart condition, epilepsy, unmedicated high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, vision problems, drug use, etc., and help drivers to better health and a safer work environment.
Will I need a DOT physical renewal?
DOT physicals are good for two years before they need to be renewed. If you suffer from a complex illness or injury, your examining physician may recommend additional exams within 24 months.
How do I know if I need a DOT Medical Exam?
Your employer can tell you if you need an exam before starting a job, to continue in your present position, or to change your situation at your current job. Employees likely to need a DOT exam include CDL drivers that transport hazardous materials, drivers transporting 16 or more occupants, including the driver, having a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more, etc.
Will my DOT exam in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island for your DOT medical exam and drug testing. Our locator will guide you to the closest Rhode Island DOT physical provider.