How to Prepare for Your DOT Physical

When you schedule your DOT (Department of Transportation) physical it’s important to arrive prepared so your appointment proceeds smoothly and all necessary information is available for your evaluation.
 
What to Bring to Your Appointment:

• Photo Identification: Please bring a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as your driver’s license.
• Medication List: Provide a complete list of any medications you currently take, including dosages and the names of your prescribing physicians.
• Eyewear: If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them with you, as your vision will be tested.
• Hearing Aids: If you use hearing aids, please bring them for your hearing assessment.
 
Medical Records and Documentation: If you have ongoing medical conditions—such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or sleep apnea—please bring recent records or documentation from your treating provider. This may include:

• A summary of your condition and current treatments
• Recent lab results or test reports
• For diabetes: your most recent Hemoglobin A1C results and blood sugar logs
• For heart disease: recent stress test, echocardiogram, or a cardiologist’s clearance letter
• For sleep apnea: CPAP machine compliance reports, if applicable
 
Previous Certificates and Waivers:

• Bring your previous DOT medical certificate (if you have one).
• Bring any waivers or exemptions granted by the DOT.
 
Health History: Be prepared to provide a thorough health history, including details about any surgeries, hospitalizations, or ongoing medical issues.
 
Why Preparation Matters: By gathering these items before your appointment you help ensure your DOT physical exam at our office is efficient and complete, reducing the chance of delays or the need for a repeat visit.

We are dedicated to helping commercial drivers meet the health and safety standards required by the Department of Transportation (DOT). As certified medical examiners, we are experienced in conducting DOT physicals and guiding drivers through the certification process.
 
Several medical conditions can potentially impact your ability to pass the DOT physical. We evaluate each patient individually and work with you to address any concerns related to:
 
• High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of heart attack or stroke. She will check your blood pressure and discuss treatment options if it is elevated.
• Diabetes: Insulin-dependent diabetes does not automatically disqualify you, but you must show good blood sugar control and no recent episodes of severe low blood sugar.
• Vision and Hearing: DOT regulations require at least 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without correction) and the ability to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet. We will perform the necessary tests and review your results.
• Heart Disease: A history of heart attack, congestive heart failure, or certain abnormal heart rhythms may require additional documentation or testing. The condition must be stable and well-managed for certification.
• Seizure Disorders: Generally, seizure disorders like epilepsy may disqualify a driver unless you have been seizure-free for a significant period without medication.
• Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Conditions: Untreated sleep apnea can cause excessive daytime sleepiness and is a safety concern. We may request documentation of treatment compliance if you have a diagnosis of sleep apnea.
 
We understand that each case is unique. We will carefully review your health history, current treatment, and documentation to determine if you meet the DOT’s physical and mental standards for commercial driving. If you have questions about your condition or what to bring to your appointment, please contact our office. We are committed to helping you navigate the DOT certification process with professionalism and compassion.

Passing a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical when you have a medical condition can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and support, you can navigate the process with confidence. We specialize in DOT physicals and are dedicated to helping commercial drivers meet the necessary health requirements while prioritizing your safety and career.
 
A DOT physical ensures that commercial drivers are healthy enough to safely operate large vehicles. Having a medical condition—such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, vision or hearing impairment, or a neurological disorder—doesn’t automatically disqualify you. However, you may need to provide additional records or demonstrate that your condition is well-controlled.
 
How We Can Help You Prepare:
 
• Personalized Pre-Exam Evaluation: Schedule a visit with us before your DOT physical to make sure your condition is well-managed. We’ll review your current health status, medications, and any recent test results.
• Guidance on DOT Medical Standards: We stay up to date with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations and can explain the requirements specific to your condition.
• Documentation Assistance: Bring your medical records, specialist reports, and a list of medications to your appointment. Our team will help you organize and submit any necessary paperwork, such as medical release forms or specialist clearances (for example, an ITDM assessment for diabetes or a cardiologist’s note for heart conditions).
• Clear Communication: During your DOT exam, we will review your medical history and discuss any concerns. If additional information or tests are needed, we’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure a smooth process.
 
What to Expect if You Have a Medical Condition
 
• Some conditions may require more frequent monitoring, which could mean a shorter certification period (such as one year instead of two).
• If your condition does not meet standard requirements, we can advise you on applying for a medical exemption or a Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) certificate, when applicable.
• Our goal is to help you demonstrate your ability to drive safely and maintain your livelihood.
 
Managing your health proactively, keeping thorough documentation, and communicating openly with your healthcare provider and DOT examiner are key steps for success. If you have questions or concerns about your specific situation, we are here to provide expert guidance as a certified FMCSA medical examiner.

If you are scheduled for a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical at Josefina Tur, M.D., P.A., please note that fasting is not required before your appointment. Unlike some medical procedures or blood tests, a DOT physical focuses on evaluating your overall health—including your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and a urine sample to check for certain medical conditions such as diabetes or kidney issues.
 
We recommend eating a light, healthy meal before your physical. This can help maintain stable blood sugar and blood pressure levels during your exam. If you have diabetes and monitor your blood sugar levels, please bring your records with you to your appointment. Continue to take your medications as prescribed, unless given different instructions.

At Josefina F. Tur, M.D., P.A., your smooth entry into commercial driving begins with expert preparation for your DOT Physical. Yuliet Suarez Prado, a dedicated Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner, specializes in ensuring you meet all federal health and safety standards. She recognizes that how to prepare is key to a hassle-free examination. By focusing on gathering essential documents—like medical clearance forms for chronic conditions or a complete list of prescription medications—Yuliet Suarez Prado helps professional drivers avoid common pitfalls, guaranteeing compliance and minimizing the time spent off the road. 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.