What to Expect During Your DOT Physical Exam

Our practice provides comprehensive DOT physical exams performed by Dr. Josefina Tur, a certified medical examiner. During your DOT exam, Dr. Tur will review your complete medical history—including any current medications, chronic illnesses, surgeries, and ongoing health concerns—to identify any conditions that may affect your ability to drive.
 
The DOT physical at Josefina Tur, M.D., P.A. includes:
 
• Vital Signs Assessment: We check your blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs to ensure your cardiovascular health is optimal for commercial driving.
• Vision and Hearing Tests: Clear vision and hearing are critical for safe driving. We assess your eyesight (requiring at least 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without corrective lenses) and confirm your ability to perceive a forced whisper, with or without hearing aids.
• Comprehensive Physical Examination: Dr. Tur will evaluate your heart, lungs, abdomen, neurological function, and musculoskeletal health. This helps detect any impairments or conditions—such as limb weakness or restricted mobility—that might impact your driving performance.
• Urinalysis: A urinalysis is performed to screen for underlying medical issues like diabetes, which can affect your long-term health and safety on the road.
 
Based on the results, Dr. Tur will determine if you meet the DOT health standards and advise you on the certification period before your next exam is required.

At Josefina Tur, M.D., P.A., a DOT physical exam typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete. The exact duration may vary, depending on your personal health history and whether any additional paperwork or testing is needed. During your visit, our team will carefully review your medical history, check your vital signs, and perform a thorough physical assessment. Required screenings, including vision and hearing tests, will also be conducted to ensure you meet DOT health standards.
 
If you have more complex medical conditions or need extra documentation, your appointment may take a bit longer. However, most drivers can expect to complete their DOT physical exam within an hour. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive, efficient, and comfortable experience so you can get back on the road with confidence.

Certain health conditions can prevent you from passing the DOT physical exam. Some of the most common disqualifying issues include:
 
• Poorly Controlled High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): If your blood pressure is severely elevated or not well-managed with medication, this could result in disqualification. Dr. Tur can work with you to help manage your blood pressure and monitor your progress.
• Insulin-Dependent Diabetes: Drivers who require insulin may need to meet specific waiver requirements and show good control of their blood sugar. Our office can help assess your eligibility and guide you through the necessary documentation.
• Vision or Hearing Loss: Clear vision and hearing are essential for driving safety. If your vision cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, or if hearing loss is not improved with a hearing aid, this may affect your ability to pass the exam. Dr. Tur will perform thorough vision and hearing screenings and can recommend appropriate interventions if needed.
• Heart Conditions: Recent heart attacks, unstable angina, or severe heart failure may be disqualifying if they pose a risk of sudden incapacitation. Our practice can coordinate with your cardiologist and review your cardiac history to determine your fitness for driving.
• Neurological Concerns: A history of stroke, seizures, or epilepsy can be a concern, though some drivers may qualify after a seizure-free period with proper documentation.
• Respiratory Disorders: Conditions like untreated sleep apnea can affect alertness and are a common reason for not passing the DOT physical. We offer referrals for sleep studies and treatment options to help you meet DOT requirements.
 
At Josefina Tur, M.D., P.A., our goal is to support your health and help you maintain your commercial driving career. If you have concerns about a specific health condition or medication, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tur before your DOT physical.

If you are scheduled for a DOT (Department of Transportation) physical exam at Josefina Tur, M.D., P.A, coming prepared will help make your appointment as smooth and efficient as possible.
 
What to Bring:
 
• Valid Photo ID: Please bring a government-issued identification, such as your driver’s license, for verification.
• Corrective Lenses or Hearing Aids: If you wear glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids, be sure to bring them, as vision and hearing are important parts of the DOT exam.
• List of Medications: If you take any prescription medications, bring a current list, including dosages and the name of your prescribing physician.
• Medical Records: If you have had recent surgeries, hospitalizations, or have ongoing medical conditions, please bring relevant documentation or recent lab results. If you’re unsure what’s needed, feel free to call our office ahead of time.
• Completed Forms: If our office provided you with any forms prior to your appointment, filling them out in advance can help save time.
• Be Prepared for a Urine Test: A urine sample is typically required as part of the DOT exam.

Dr. Josefina Tur, M.D., P.A., offers expert guidance and care to ensure that your Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam is straightforward and stress-free. The DOT physical exam is required for commercial drivers to ensure they meet the health standards necessary for safe driving. Dr. Tur provides a comprehensive exam to assess your physical fitness and ensure you are fit to operate commercial vehicles.

During the exam, Dr. Tur will evaluate your vision, hearing, and blood pressure, as well as review your medical history, including any chronic conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular issues. She will also check for any physical limitations that could affect your ability to drive safely. If you are on any medications, Dr. Tur will consider how they might impact your driving ability and provide advice accordingly.

Additionally, a urine test may be conducted to check for any health issues like kidney function or diabetes. Dr. Tur will walk you through the process, making sure you feel confident and informed. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are located at 4100 NW 9th St, Suite #100, Miami, FL 33126. We serve clients from West Miami, Coral Gables, Miami Springs, Virginia Gardens, Doral, Hialeah, South Miami, Sweetwater, Miami Shores, El Portal, and surrounding areas.