Professional bus or truck drivers are aware of the demanding nature of their work. You’ll likely be required to undergo a DOT physical test to ensure your safety and the general public’s safety.
You might need to be aware of the physical strain of driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) to transport people or goods if you’re considering a career in this field. You’ll need to know how to pass a DOT physical drug test on complying with current regulations, ensuring that you can perform your duties and operate commercial vehicles safely and securely. Look out for a DOT physical near me to undergo this test.
Being behind the wheel for long periods of time while operating a CMV can be very taxing on the body. You will need problem-solving skills and attention to safety while driving for this job.
The medical exam test makes sure that you are both physically and mentally capable of carrying out the duties of your position.
This blog can help you learn everything you need to know if you’re wondering what a DOT physical is!
What Does a DOT Physical Exam Look for?
You may need to occasionally pass a DOT physical and DOT physical drug test to drive professionally. Currently, the Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates a medical examination before a driver can obtain or maintain their commercial driver’s license, especially for long-haul truckers and bus drivers (CDL). Since you’ll be driving a truck carrying valuable cargo, the DOT wants to ensure that nothing that could reasonably be expected will interfere with your ability to do so safely.
So, what exactly is a DOT physical, and how do you obtain one? You must make an appointment, visit an examiner who has received federal approval, and go through a DOT physical in your area to obtain a DOT physical certification. The medical examiner may be a doctor of medicine (MD), a doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO), a physician assistant (PA), an advanced practice nurse (APN), or a chiropractor, among many other specialties (DC).
The DOT exam aims to ascertain and validate the general health of drivers who are required to operate heavy CMVs, carry sizable passenger loads, or haul potentially hazardous cargo. The tests you must take will evaluate your emotional stability as well as your capacity to withstand physical and mental stress. While each state has its own requirements for DOT physicals, the goal is to ensure that CMV drivers operating on public roads do so courteously and securely.
You’ll be given a DOT medical card once you’ve passed your DOT exams. This is effective for two years after the date of issuance.
How to prepare for a DOT physical?
There are a few things you can do to speed up the process and help you pass your exams before you even show up for them.
Gathering all the tools and paperwork you might need to present to the medical examiner is the first thing you should do.
- Make sure your prescriptions are current and take your medications as directed.
- Have your eyes checked and your prescription updated if you wear glasses or contacts.
- Avert binge drinking.
- Avoid abusing substances.
- Avoid salty snacks and other foods that can raise blood pressure.
- Eat less of the foods that raise blood glucose levels, such as sugary treats.
- If you vape or smoke cigarettes, think about cessation.
- Manage your weight. Engage in regular exercise and a nutritious diet.
You might also think about changing your way of life before the exam if you want to ace it. Avoiding excessive drinking, drug use, and food that might aggravate any underlying medical conditions will increase your chances of passing the class.
Conclusion
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires commercial vehicle drivers to undergo a DOT physical before operating their vehicles (FMCSA).
This test ensures that you are physically capable of performing your job. This includes having the ability to tolerate the health risks associated with prolonged sitting.
You can call or directly walk-in at NYUCC, for the best urgent care DOT physical test in New York.
