The DOT Physical Exam

The DOT Physical Exam

Operating a large truck is a potentially dangerous job that should only be performed by fully qualified individuals. This is why the U.S. government has a long and strictly enforced list of qualifications for people interested in pursuing this career. In addition to the written and skills portions of the commercial driver’s license test, aspiring drivers also need to pass a medical check-up known as the Department of Transportation (DOT) Physical Exam.

If you own or manage a freight hauling company, you know the importance of making sure all of your employees are fully qualified for their jobs. Failure to do so could have serious legal and financial consequences. Fortunately, if your company is facing slowed profits for any reason, help is available. To learn about freight factoring and how it could help you, call TBS Factoring Service, LLC at 1-800-207-7661.

DOT Physical Requirements

All truck drivers must pass the DOT medical exam before they can begin operating a large vehicle; in addition, everyone working as a trucker will need to retake the exam on a regular basis. The exam can be administered by your primary care physician or by a company doctor at the workplace.

The requirements for passing the exam include:

  • Vision of at least 20/40, with corrective lenses if necessary
  • Blood pressure below 160/90, with heart medication if necessary
  • No diagnosis of epilepsy, narcolepsy, or other conditions that can interfere with concentration
  • No current diagnosis of alcoholism, or current use of amphetamines or narcotics
  • No disabilities that could interfere with the ability to drive a truck (including missing limbs)

There are additional requirements that a person must meet to become a truck driver; if you have any questions, the Department of Transportation’s Highway Traffic Administration can provide the information you need.

Contact a Freight Factor

Whether your business is doing well or encountering a slow period, trucking factoring can help you remain efficient and streamlined. To learn more, contact a truck factoring agent from TBS Factoring Service, LLC at 1-800-207-7661.