DOT Physical Near El Paso, TX

Filter by

Finding A DOT Exam Near Me In El Paso

The job of the Department Of Transportation (DOT) is to protect public roads and prevent fatal accidents that cost lives. Consequently, they hold commercial driver’s license (CDL) drivers to a minimum standard of physical health to prevent health or substance use-related accidents. Part of their efforts include a mandatory DOT physical, sometimes referred to as a 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 a DOT 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 El Paso?

    The medical card is generally good for two years if you’re healthy. If, however, you have an ongoing medical condition that needs more monitoring, your El Paso DOT medical examiner may decide to make DOT physical renewals more frequent.

    How Long Is The DOT Exam?

    Generally, an appointment is 30-45 minutes. To speed things along, arrive 10-15 minutes early in order to complete the paperwork. Complicated health conditions may make your appointment longer.

    Note: Specialist appointments may be necessary to clear you for duty and could delay getting your medical card. You can request your specialist send a letter to your DOT medical examiner ahead of time.

    Do They Require A DOT Drug Screening in El Paso?

    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 El Paso?

    You can check the internet for “DOT physical near me” or check out our website. Team CME makes it convenient to find local clinic options by contracting with certified medical examiners nationwide.

    Do I Need To Bring Anything To The Exam?

    Bring adaptive devices like:

    • Prescription glasses
    • Hearing aids

    You should also bring a driver’s license or other form of photo ID.