Preparing for Your DOT Exam in Texas

To become a commercial driver in the state of Texas, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that you undergo a DOT physical exam to ensure you’re healthy and capable of driving safely on the job.

The requirements are overseen by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and you apply through the state licensing bureau, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

The DOT physical needs to be performed by a qualified provider, and at Primecare Family Practice, board-certified family practitioners Maryline Ongangi, APRN, FNP-C, and Lewis Nyantika, APRN, FNP-C, provide this service for our patients in the Arlington area.

Here’s what you need to know about the physical and the requirements for getting certified as a commercial driver in Texas.

Why do you need a DOT physical?

The FMCSA explains the rationale for the exam as follows: “The physical qualification examination you take for your Medical Examiner’s Certificate, Form MCSA-5876, confirms that you are healthy enough to safely perform the demanding job of a CMV driver and keep our nation’s roads safe.”

What’s involved in a DOT physical exam?

When you come in for your DOT physical, you can expect the following:

Medical history review

The doctor asks you questions about your personal and family medical histories, lifestyle habits, and any conditions you’ve been diagnosed with.

Physical exam

The doctor physically examines your ears, eyes, throat, heart rate, blood pressure, reflexes, breathing, and any areas where you indicate you’re having a problem.

They may also perform diagnostic tests such as a routine blood count, a urinalysis for drug testing, a vision and hearing screening, a glucose check, and any other test the doctor deems is important to clear you for your license.

If you have a medical condition and need treatment or care from a specialist before you can pass a DOT physical, your Primecare Family Practice doctor can provide treatment or refer you to a specialist. This includes things like eyesight correction (glasses or contacts), hearing aids, prescription medications, or injury treatments.

Expect the doctor to work with you to help you pass the exam, as well as fill out the paperwork needed to obtain your license.

What should I bring to the DOT physical?

You should bring the following items with you to your DOT physical exam:

• FMCSA Form MCSA-5876
• Any recent lab test results 
• Prescription and supplement medication list
• Picture ID
• Payment
• Eyeglasses and/or hearing aids if you need them
• Any medical records from specialists, such as for diabetes, cardiac issues, or arthritis, if you have them

The form is a fillable PDF, so you should print it out and bring that copy to the office so we can fill it out with the results of the exam.

If you’re looking to become a commercial driver in Texas, Primecare Family Practice can help you get your DOT physical exam out of the way. Call our office at 817-873-3710, or book online with us today.