What to Expect at Your DOT Exam

DOT exams are an essential — and required — part of maintaining a valid commercial driver’s license in Florida and across the country. Knowing what to expect at your exam can provide peace of mind, but it also helps you prepare ahead to avoid delays in licensing and renewal.

At Kerinver Chiropractic, Josue Maysonet, DC, helps commercial drivers stay on the road with DOT exams focused on current licensing requirements. If you have an upcoming DOT exam, here’s what to expect.

Your DOT exam: what to expect

DOT exams are like regular physical exams but with fewer evaluations and assessments. Like your annual physical, a DOT exam begins with a medical history and a physical to gather baseline information about your health relevant to your job duties. 

We measure your blood pressure, check your hearing, assess your vision, and order lab work, like urinalysis or blood tests, to measure your blood sugar and evaluate other biomarkers. We ask you about your personal and family medical history and any medications you’re taking regularly. 

We may order lab tests or other assessments to ensure your treatment plan is effective in managing your condition and preventing complications that could interfere with your job duties if you have a chronic health issue, like diabetes or heart disease. We also ask about your mental health, including conditions like depression and anxiety, that may benefit from treatment.

It’s important to note that only healthcare providers listed on the FMCSA registry can conduct DOT exams — and that includes Dr. Maysonet. These providers get trained to evaluate your health, specifically how it affects your job performance and safety on the road.

Getting ready for your exam

After your DOT exam, Dr. Maysonet fills out the paperwork required by the FMCSA. Before your exam date, print out a copy of the form and fill out your personal information. Bring the form to your appointment so Dr. Maysonet can complete the medical portion.

In addition to this form, bring a list of all your medications and any relevant test results or medical records from your other healthcare providers. That includes results of recent lab tests or diagnostic imaging. Bring your driver’s license and medical and motor vehicle insurance cards.

Be ready to discuss your family’s medical history and personal health history, including any chronic conditions you’re currently receiving treatment for. It can be helpful to jot down notes before your visit so you don’t miss anything critical that could delay your license application or renewal.

Finally, if you fail your initial exam due to a medical issue, don’t panic: You can re-take the exam once that issue is managed effectively with treatment.

Schedule your DOT exam today

If you’re a commercial driver, you need a DOT exam to stay on the road, and as a qualified DOT examiner, Dr. Maysonet can help. To schedule your DOT exam, request an appointment online or over the phone with the Kerinver Chiropractic team in Kissimmee and Lake Nona, Orlando, Florida, today.