DOT Physicals in Texas

Getting Your DOT Exam/CDL Physical Exam in Texas

There are many jobs for CDL (commercial driver’s license) drivers. Such jobs are essential to keep communities running and the economy functioning.

Truckers understand that due to the risky nature of driving massive vehicles, the Department Of Transportation (DOT) must expect CDL drivers to meet or exceed health and sobriety requirements to prevent avoidable accidents.

So, where do you find a DOT medical examiner, what is the DOT medical exam, and what can you expect? Team CME is here to help you make sense of the process.

What Is The DOT Exam?

DOT medical cards proves you passed the physical. While accidents happen in both private and commercial vehicles, mass casualties are more likely in commercial vehicles. Employers don’t want to hire an individual with epilepsy or someone who will fall asleep while driving due to narcolepsy.

To make certain all truck drivers meet the minimum standard, they are required to have a DOT physical (sometimes called a DOT medical exam) at least every two years. The medical card shows they passed that exam.

Do Any Physical Conditions Disqualify Me From Acquiring A DOT Medical Card In Texas?

Actually, many health problems can be managed through medication and lifestyle choices, but some health problems are more difficult to control, such as epilepsy. A seizure while driving a commercial motor vehicle could have devastating results. Partial or complete blindness makes it impossible to read road signs and see the road, etc.

The DOT has standards aimed at keeping truck drivers and communities safe. Your DOT medical examiner can help you understand if your health conditions are compatible with driving commercial vehicles.

How Do I Prepare For The DOT Physical Exam?

Like other doctor’s offices, staff appreciate when you come in a few minutes early to fill out paperwork to prevent delays. Remember to take your driver’s license or other form of photo ID for identification, medical records to shed light on your history and chronic conditions, and hearing aids or glasses to ensure that the prescription strength is still adequate.

How Long Is The DOT Medical Card Valid?

In general, they’re good for two years. However, people with challenging medical conditions may require more attention. If so, your medical examiner will schedule your DOT physical renewals more frequently.

Is A DOT Drug Test Mandatory in Texas?

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. 

A potential employer can request that a pre-employment drug test be performed at the same time as the DOT physical exam. Commercial drivers should consider random drug screenings a regular part of the job. In addition, your employer will likely require drug screening after an accident to prove you were sober. If you give your employer reason to believe you’re intoxicated at any other time, they can require you to test. After a failed drug test, you will need to complete a substance abuse program and then obtain a new CDL medical card before you can return to driving a commercial motor vehicle.

Can I Go To My Primary Doctor?

Your general practitioner might be certified with the FMCSA National Registry. If so, they qualify to provide that service. If they don’t, then schedule a visit with a DOT medical examiner.

How Do I Find A DOT Medical Examiner And Drug Test Near Me In Texas?

Try searching for “DOT physical near me,” or you can use the locator tool here on our website. Team CME has contracted with clinics nationwide. CDL drivers can get into the office, complete the exam, get their DOT medical card, and get to work as soon as possible.

How Long Is The Exam?

Appointments usually last 30-45 minutes. If you have ongoing health challenges that need a more in-depth look, the appointment may last longer. If the condition is severe, the examiner may require you to see a specialist to clear you for duty. Once they’ve signed off on your ability to work, you get your DOT medical card.