3 Tips For Preparing For Your DOT Physical

Posted on: 29 April 2019

Preparing to receive your commercial driver's license is an exciting feeling. You will now be eligible for many new career opportunities, including driving a public bus or being a commercial truck driver. Preparing for your commercial driver's license does involve one crucial step that shouldn't be overlooked: getting a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. This physical is designed to demonstrate that you are healthy enough to perform commercial driving duties. Here are three tips to help you prepare:

A Chiropractor Can Administer It

One of the most convenient options is to have your DOT physical exam administered by a chiropractic doctor. While your primary care physician may be booked out for months, chiropractic practices pride themselves on their excellent customer service and can likely get you in as soon as you need to be seen. In addition to administering the DOT physical exam, the chiropractor can also perform a chiropractic exam and adjustment if needed.

They can provide tips for keeping your spine, neck, back, and other areas healthy and comfortable as a commercial driver, which can be a struggle. Keep in mind that not all chiropractors offer DOT physical exams, so you be sure to check ahead of time.

Know What to Expect

A DOT physical usually consists of a vision test, as well as basic medical tests for things like blood pressure and cholesterol. They will take a urinalysis sample to test for conditions like diabetes, so it is best to drink plenty of water just before your physical appointment. In some states, they will also perform a drug test to make sure no illegal substances are in your system. The appointment for your DOT physical should take less than an hour and be very straightforward.

Learn Where to Take Your Results

Where you take your physical bill of health depends on your state as well as your employment status. Some trucking companies may have you turn in your form directly to them along with other new hire paperwork. They will then file it with your local DMV or other DOT office. Be sure to check with your company, and if you don't yet have a commercial driving job lined up, you will need to do an internet search to find out where to take your form. It will most likely be your local DMV.

Getting a DOT physical shouldn't be intimidating. By following these tips, you will soon have your signed physical that you can turn in to your DMV or other Department of Transportation office.

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