DOT/CDL Exam

Fast and Convenient CDL/DOT Physical Exam

Dr. Shavahn Witherspoon is an FMCSA National Registry Certified Medical Examiner and is qualified to perform CDL/DOT physicals. Appointments are preferred, but we will try to get you seen the same day!

DOT EXAM STEPS

STEP 1. Fill out a brief health history (Before your appointment)
STEP 2. Complete your DOT physical exam with Dr. Shavahn Witherspoon

  • Payment is due in the form of cash, credit, or company check.
    (Sorry, health insurance does not cover the DOT physical exam)

  • review of brief medical history

  • height, weight, blood pressure, pulse rate, range of motion, breathing, eyes, ears

  • discuss special medical conditions

  • urinalysis for basic urinalysis test


STEP 3. We complete your paperwork. Photo ID required.

  • You will receive a DOT medical card for you to keep with you while you are driving.

  • You will get a copy of the DOT physical form, and we will also fax the DOT physical form to your company as well.

  • We will keep a scan copy of your DOT physical form on file at our office.

  • We will submit your certification to the FMCSA
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The Day of the DOT Physical Exam:

  • Get a full night's sleep

  • Don't drink any caffeine

  • Don't take any OTC medications

  • Remember to bring the medical records you've prepared in advance, including your list of medications

  • Remember to bring eye glasses and/or hearing aid (it's surprising how many people forget this)

  • Drink water. Come with a need to pee.
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Things to Plan in Advance:

All drivers

  • Bring a complete list of ALL your medications, including the doses and your doctors’ names and addresses

  • Please complete this paperwork before the exam (driver’s portion) to save time at the center

Drivers who have high blood pressure

  • Your blood pressure MUST be below 140/90 on the day of your exam or you may not qualify for a DOT card

Drivers who require eyeglasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids

  • Bring your glasses, contacts, or hearing aids

  • You will be required to pass a vision and hearing test

Drivers who have diabetes

  • Your blood sugar should be controlled

  • Bring the most recent results of a lab test called a Hemoglobin A1C (HgAIC) and your blood sugar logs or other records related to your diabetes

Drivers who have nighttime sleep disturbance (sleep apnea) and use a CPAP machine

  • Bring a reading from your machine documenting your proper use of the machine; a letter from your sleep specialist may also be required

  • Bring at least 90 days of data, but data from the past year is best

Drivers who have heart-related issues, (including the use of stent, valve replacement, pacemaker, open-heart surgery, cardiac bypass surgery, or heart attack)

  • At minimum, bring a letter from your cardiologist (heart specialist) that outlines your medical history and current medications and indicates you are safe to drive a DOT vehicle

  • You may also need to bring the results of a recent stress test, ECHO cardiogram, or other testing completed within the past 1-2 years

Drivers who have suffered a stroke, a brain tumor, seizure disorder, or bleeding in the brain

  • Bring a letter from your neurologist (brain and nerve specialist) that outlines your medical history, current medications, and current neurologic and psychiatric state

Drivers who have experienced the permanent loss of use in an arm or a leg

  • Bring an overview from your physician of the injury and if you have any work restrictions due to the injury

  • You may need a Skilled Performance Examination in order to qualify for your DOT card

Drivers who are taking any medications that may cause sedation or sleepiness or controlled substances (includes narcotics, sleeping pills, anxiety medication, ADHD medication)

  • You will most likely need a note and medical records from your treating physician regarding the safety of driving a DOT vehicle while using these medications

Drivers who are taking the blood thinner Coumadin (Warfarin)

  • Bring a recent INR (blood level and clearance) letter from your doctor


If you are uncertain if you will qualify for a DOT card, you may want to schedule a visit with your primary or specialty physician BEFORE your re-certification date. Each physical examination, just like each DOT applicant, is unique.


The above are guidelines only, and not meant to be all inclusive or as a guarantee of passing the exam. Additional testing or/information may be required by your DOT examiner.

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