Department of Transportation Physicals
How to prepare for a DOT Physical ▼
To prepare for the test — and improve your health:
- Make sure your medications are up to date, and take them regularly as prescribed.
- If you wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, have your eyes checked and your prescription updated.
- Avoid heavy drinking.
- Don’t misuse substances.
- Avoid foods that adversely affect blood pressure, such as salty snacks.
- Avoid foods that adversely affect blood glucose levels, such as sugary sweets.
- Consider smoking cessation, if you smoke cigarettes or vape.
- Manage your weight. Exercise more often than not, and follow a healthy diet.
DOT Physical General Information ▼
If you are or wish to be a commercial vehicle driver, you’ll be required to have a DOT (Department of Transportation) physical.
This physical exam is done by a certified medical examiner.
It’s done to make sure you’re healthy enough to drive a commercial vehicle.
DOT physicals are required every 2 years for most drivers. If you have a health condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure, you may be required to have a DOT physical performed annually instead of every 2 years.