DOT exam is performed by a certified FMCSA (Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Administration) Medical Examiner in a
professional, comfortable and clean facility. A urinalysis test is
also performed during the physical but it is not a drug test.
Do I need to schedule an appointment for a DOT exam?
Walk-ins are welcome. However, appointments are appreciated
for our patients and for less waiting time for you.
Our office is conveniently located near the intersection of Boy
Scout Drive and Cleveland Avenue in Fort Myers. Please call
ahead on a recommendation for 18 wheelers.
Why do I need a valid DOT medical card?
Florida law requires all CDL drivers to have a valid DOT medical
card, unless the type of commerce you drive qualifies as
‘Excepted’. Drivers certifying in non-excepted interstate or
intrastate commerce (Category A or C) must ensure their
medical documentation is on file with the state issuing agency
and that it remains current.
How often do I have to get a DOT exam?
DOT medical cards are typically issued for 2 years. However, you
may be certified for less than 2 years if the medical examiner
determines that more frequent monitoring of your health is
required. The examiner will discuss this with you should your
certification be less than 2 years.
What documents do I need to bring to the exam?
Photo Identification.
List of any medications.
Prescription glasses or contacts if needed.
If you use a CPAP machine, bring a report of the last 90 days
use
If you have diabetes, bring your most recent lab work indicating
your A1C levels
What should I do on the day of the exam?
Get plenty of rest.
Absolutely NO CAFFEINE! Avoid foods and beverages with
caffeine, sodium or carbohydrates/sugar at least 8 hrs prior.
Take any medications as prescribed.
Drink plenty of water as you normally should.
Vision testing
Bring glasses/contacts to examination.
Distant Vision should be pre-tested to assure success if you
have issues with distance.
Blood pressure testing
Your blood pressure will be taken, please wear short sleeves or
wear something you can remove for accurate testing. Values
below 140/90 are required for certification.
Readings above 159/99 only qualify for a 3 month temporary
certification so that the proper care can be received to bring it
down to normal levels.
Most blood pressure medications are approved.
Hearing testing
Can you hear a soft voice at 5 feet? If not, get a hearing
evaluation from a private physician to establish the loss and the
need for a hearing amplification.
Most drivers with minor hearing loss are permitted to use a
hearing aids.
Doctor visits since your last DOT medical examination
If you have been to the doctor for anything other than routine
check-ups or general counseling, you should bring
documentation to the DOT examination. In many cases
additional information from your specialist is required.
Alcohol & Substance Issues
Alcohol and Substance Issues require extensive paperwork. Call
us prior to your exam if you have questions.
Surgeries, procedures, new conditions or medications
If your medications or medical condition has changed since
your last exam, you should bring documentation to your DOT
examination.
Conditions which require Special Issuance / Waiver
If you have a condition which has or will require an exemption,
you should obtain DOT documentation of pre-approval through
FMCSA. This includes a loss of a limb or appendage, certain
cases of Diabetes, loss of an eye or sight.
Vitamins, herbal preparations and food supplements
Some herbal preparations can jeopardize your DOT medical
examination.
How long does it take to get the results?
We can provide the results for your DOT exam on the same day
and you can walk out with your certification immediately
afterward. More complicated health issues may require
additional time.