How often do you have to get a CDL physical?

• Every two years. You’ll need to get a new physical exam when your CDL is up for renewal (this is the date printed on your current card). Some medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, may require you to have physicals more frequently so your health can be closely monitored.
• Anytime, no matter what. You can have a new medical examiner’s certificate issued any time you want—even if your current one isn’t expired yet! This is helpful if you’ve had any health issues since your last exam and want to update it with the doctor who did it before.

How do you prepare for a CDL physical?

Here are some things to keep in mind before your CDL physical:

• Check with your doctor and make sure that you’re healthy enough for the test. Typically, a physical should show that you have no health problems that would interfere with driving a commercial vehicle. 
• Bring a list of known medical issues or symptoms. This is also why it’s important not only to carry copies of past medical records but also those from two years ago (which they may ask for) so they can see if any changes were made since then which might affect their decision about whether or not someone should be allowed on the road.

Make sure you know your current health status and be able to describe any symptoms that you may have experienced recently. Don’t be afraid about being honest with your provider. Most conditions can be monitored carefully while still allowing you to drive with a CDL. Some examples of medical conditions that need to be monitored include:

• • Diabetes
    • Please bring a copy of recent blood sugar results or hemoglobin A1C.
  • High Blood Pressure
    • If this is currently being treated, please bring a copy of your treatment plan so your provider can review it.
  • Sleep Apnea
    • Provide your doctor with a copy of the last 30 days of your CPAP usage if a CPAP is being used.
  • Heart Disease
    • Bring a copy of recent stress-test results for your provider to review if you have one.
• Bring all prescription medications along with current dosages and frequency. Some drugs cannot mix well together — especially when taken while operating heavy machinery like buses/trucks. Your provider can help you review these to ensure any medical conditions are being properly and safely controlled with medication.

Does a DOT physical transfer from state to state?

The short answer is yes, a DOT physical transfer from state to state.

A DOT physical card is valid for a maximum of two years and can be used in multiple states across the country. As long as the information on your card does not change (such as name or address), it will be good for the new state that you are moving to or working in.

What are the requirements for a CDL physical?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that all drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) have a valid physical exam by a licensed medical examiner every two years. This includes drivers who are newly hired and those who have been operating CMVs without an examination for at least two years. CDL physicals are good for 24 months with exceptions to monitor certain conditions such as high blood pressure.

In order to obtain a CDL physical, you need to meet the following requirements:

• Pass a vision test. You can’t have worse than 20/40 vision in each eye. If you’re farsighted or nearsighted and wear glasses or contact lenses, you must be able to pass the exam with them on.
• Pass a hearing test. Your hearing must be normal for both ears; if it’s not, your doctor may refer you back to an audiologist who can determine whether any hearing aids are needed before he gives his final approval on your CDL physical results and medical certificate. This is typically done by ensuring the driver can hear a forced whisper from 5 feet away.

Conclusion

Getting a CDL physical is vital if you want to operate a commercial vehicle. The exam will ensure that you are fit to drive and will help keep the public safe from harm. Don’t be afraid to be honest with your provider, many medical conditions can be monitored and treated while still allowing you to drive with a CDL. Come prepared and honest to your CDL physical, and we’ll help you get on the road.