DOT Physical Exams

DOT Physicals in Maryland

Same Day Physical Performed by Certified Medical Examiners

DOT Truck Driver

Driving commercial vehicles in interstate commerce requires a medical examiner's certificate. You get this by passing a DOT physical exam from an approved examiner. And Priority Care conveniently offers DOT-certified examiners at each of our Maryland clinics. You can check our certified examiners on the FMCSA website.

DOT physicals are regulated by law to ensure you can safely spend hours on the road. And we're here to keep you in compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

But we get it -- you're busy and getting an exam to comply with FMCSA regulations isn't your ideal day. That's why it's our goal to make the entire process as fast and simple as possible, without cutting corners. So that's what we'll do.

Seasoned and new CMV drivers will find everything you need to know right here. Find clinic locations, click the links to download paperwork, review restrictions, and get the relevant info.

Further down the page we've included more detailed information. That's where you'll learn what to expect, why you need the exam, and more.


DOT Physicals: Key Points

Scheduling No appointment necessary. Just walk-in.
Exam Duration About an hour
Cost $130 (total)
Payments Most insurances do not cover the exam for CDL medical cards
What to Bring Your active license, old DOT certification/card, relevant medical records (if necessary)

DOT Physicals in Maryland

Maryland Clinics that Have Certified Examiners On Staff


Before and After Your Medical Physical Exam

Preparing for Your Exam

  • Take any routine medications as scheduled
  • Get a good nights sleep. Being well rested can aid in lowering blood pressure and help with other tests.
  • Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and salty foods for 2-3 days before the exam
  • Read over what medications can disqualify drivers
  • Review the FMCSA exemption programs to understand hearing, vision, or diabetes exemptions
  • Download the paperwork

Post-Physical Expectations

If our medical examiner qualifies you to drive a CMV, then we'll deliver a copy of the results to you. We'll also submit your report to the Department of Transportation for inclusion in the CDLIS.

If you fail to meet the requirements of the DOT physical, then our certified examiner will help you get on track. You might qualify for an exemption program set out by the FMCSA. No matter the outcome, our examiner and staff will help to get you certified as soon as possible.


Your DOT Physical Includes

Some exams might require unique tests at the discretion of the examiner. However, all physicals will include a thorough exam of the following items.

  • Diabetes and digestion
  • Heart disorders
  • Blood pressure
  • Nervous system health
  • Muscular disease and spine deformities
  • Vision test
  • Hearing disorders
  • Respiratory and lung issues
  • Neurological exam

DOT Exam FAQs and Answers

Below are some common questions we receive from drivers and employers. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions or want to speak with someone.

FAQs

Do I need to submit paperwork to government?

Our staff will submit your completed physical and supporting documents to fmcsa.gov. Unless the examiner makes a special request your documentation will be completed by the team at Priority Care.


Are you certified to perform the DOT physical?

Yes, we have several certified medical examiners on staff. Each Priority Care location has a certified examiner standing by to perform your physical. Visit the FMCSA website to see our team.


Do you have to take a drug test for a DOT physical?

Typically, no, a drug test is not required. The need for a drug screen is at the discretion of the medical examiner. It is not mandatory unless the examiner determines it to be.


What do you look for in a DOT physical?

  • Loss of hearing
  • Digestive problems
  • Psychiatric disorders
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Alcohol/Drug Use
  • Missing limbs
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Impaired vision
  • Kidney disease
  • Stroke
  • Chronic pain
  • Paralysis
  • Brain injuries or neurological disorders, Epilepsy or seizures
  • Heart attack or heart disease
  • Respiratory (breathing) Conditions

What does DOT physical mean?

As announced in early 2013, DOT/FMCSA has implemented new medical administrative processes, and as part of the new process all DOT Medical Examiners are required to undergo specialized DOT training, take a DOT certification and maintain certification as a Medical Examiner with FMCSA. Drivers and employers should be aware that as of July 1st 2014, all DOT exam results will be recorded electronically with FMCSA, as per Federal regulation.

The Department of Transportation requires all commercial driver’s license (CDL) applicants to undergo a specialized physical examination as part of the application process. This is done to ensure commercial drivers are healthy enough to operate a large vehicle for long stretches of time.


What does the medical examiner do and what will they check?

  • General Appearance: Marked overweight, tremors (shakes), signs of drinking/drug abuse or problems.
  • Eyes: Will be checked for size equality, adjustment to light, proper movement and coordination. You will be asked about a history of cataracts, glaucoma, and other issues which may require a follow-up with a specialist.
  • Ears: Will be checked for visible signs of scarring or blockage, as well as for holes in your eardrums.
  • Mouth and Throat: Will be checked for physical deformities that could interfere with breathing or swallowing.
  • Heart: Checked for murmurs and extra sounds, enlarged heart, pacemaker and implantable defibrillator.
  • Lungs and Chest: Abnormal sounds and breathing rates. Anything out of the ordinary may require further tests, such as x-rays.
  • Abdomen and Organs: Will be checked for enlarged liver and spleen, unusual masses, sounds, hernias and weaknesses.
  • Vascular (blood movement) System: Abnormal or weak pulse, normal blood flow, varicose veins.
  • Urinary System: Will be checked for hernias.
  • Extremities/Limbs: Loss or damaged limbs or digits. Limp, deformities, weakness or other deficiencies of use in arms, legs, hands, feet, grasp and strength.
  • Spine/Skeletal: Deformities, limitation of movement, tenderness.
  • Neurological (The brain and the nervous system): Balance/equilibrium, reflexes, speech coordination.