DOT Physicals and CDL Exams for Truck Drivers - Moriarty NM
What is a dot physical
DOT Medical Exams for Commercial Drivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes regulations to ensure the safe operation of commercial vehicles across the country. In addition to federal guidelines, each state may have its own specific requirements for commercial drivers.
A Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Exam is required to assess your overall health, mental, and emotional fitness to meet the physical demands of professional driving.
FMCSA Certification Requirements
The FMCSA mandates that all commercial drivers maintain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), which confirms you meet the necessary health standards to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
- Your certificate is issued only after passing a DOT medical exam.
- The exam must be conducted by a medical professional listed on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
- Certified medical examiners have undergone specialized training in FMCSA regulations to ensure drivers are evaluated fairly and accurately.
Cost & Payment Information for DOT Physicals
DOT physicals are not covered by insurance and must be paid at the time of your visit. The pricing is as follows:
- Standard DOT Physical Exam – $150 (includes a full medical evaluation and completion of required forms)
- Urgent DOT Physical or After-Hours Exam – $175 (for drivers whose DOT certification is expiring within the next two weeks or those needing an exam outside of normal clinic hours; this includes a rush fee for expedited service)
Payment is due at the time of service and can be made by cash or card.
Easy & Convenient DOT Exams at New Mexico Family Medicine
At New Mexico Family Medicine, we strive to make the DOT physical process simple and stress-free. Whether you need a routine exam or an urgent certification, we are here to help.
If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment, contact us online or by phone today!
Do I need a DOT physical?
You are required to complete a DOT (Department of Transportation) Medical Exam if you fall into any of the following categories:
- You operate a vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
- You are paid to drive a vehicle designed for 9 or more passengers, including the driver.
- You operate a commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 10,001 pounds or more.
- You transport hazardous materials that require a hazardous materials placard on your vehicle.
If you meet any of these criteria, a DOT physical is mandatory to ensure you meet Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) health and safety standards.
Schedule Your DOT Physical Today
At New Mexico Family Medicine, Stephanie Neufeld, FNP-BC, is an FMCSA-certified medical examiner who can perform your DOT physical and provide the necessary certification.
Book your DOT Medical Exam online or by phone today!
What happens for a dot physical?
Preparing for Your DOT Physical Exam
Before your appointment, you’ll need to complete a Medical Examination Report Form, where you’ll disclose any current or past health conditions. It’s important to provide accurate information, as failing to do so could result in the revocation of your Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC).
Health Conditions to Report
Be sure to list any of the following medical conditions, if applicable:
- Neurological conditions (brain injuries, epilepsy, seizures, stroke, paralysis)
- Hearing or vision impairments
- Cardiovascular issues (heart disease, heart attack)
- Kidney disease or digestive disorders
- Mental health conditions (depression, anxiety disorders)
- Dizziness, fainting, or balance problems
- Spinal cord injuries or missing limbs
- Chronic pain or other significant health concerns
What to Expect During Your DOT Physical
During your visit, Stephanie Neufeld, FNP-BC, will review your Medical Examination Report and ask additional questions about your health history. A comprehensive physical exam will be performed, including:
- Blood pressure check
- Vision screening
- Hearing test
- Urinalysis (to assess glucose levels and screen for substances)
- Evaluation of lung function, heart health, digestive system, and coordination
How Long Does the Exam Take?
The entire DOT physical exam typically lasts about 45 minutes.
Schedule Your DOT Exam Today
At New Mexico Family Medicine, we provide FMCSA-certified DOT physicals to ensure you meet the necessary health requirements for commercial driving.
Book your DOT Medical Exam online or by phone today!
How Long is a DOT Medical Certificate Valid?
In most cases, a DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) is valid for two years. However, the duration of your certification depends on your overall health and specific medical conditions.
- Two-Year Certificate – Issued if you meet all health requirements with no concerning conditions.
- One-Year Certificate – If you have certain medical conditions, such as high or low blood pressure or other conditions that may impact your ability to drive, you may receive a one-year certificate instead.
- Three-Month Certificate – If you have severely high blood pressure or another treatable condition, you may be issued a temporary three-month certificate. After this period, if your condition improves, you may qualify for a one- or two-year certificate upon re-evaluation.
What Happens if a Medical Condition Develops After Certification?
If you develop a new medical condition after receiving your DOT certificate that affects your ability to drive safely, you are required to stop driving until the condition is treated. Once your health is stable, you will need to complete another DOT physical to confirm your ability to return to work.
Schedule Your DOT Exam Today
At New Mexico Family Medicine, Stephanie Neufeld, FNP-BC, provides FMCSA-certified DOT physicals to ensure commercial drivers meet all health and safety requirements.
Book your DOT Medical Exam online or by phone today!
What Happens if You Don’t Pass the DOT Physical?
Failing your DOT physical exam does not necessarily mean you are permanently disqualified from driving a commercial vehicle. If you have a disqualifying medical condition, talk with Stephanie Neufeld, FNP-BC, about your options. In many cases, conditions can be improved with treatment, allowing you to retake the exam once your health is stabilized.
FMCSA Exemption Programs
The FMCSA offers exemption programs for certain medical conditions, including:
- Diabetes
- Impaired vision or hearing
- Certain disabilities
If you have a qualifying condition, Stephanie Neufeld, FNP-BC, can help determine if you may be eligible for an FMCSA exemption and guide you through the application process.
Why DOT Physicals Matter
According to the latest FMCSA data, safety regulations and medical screening requirements have contributed to:
- A 17% decrease in large truck and bus fatalities since 2003
- An 18% drop in injury-related crashes
- A 27% reduction in property-damage-only accidents
These improvements highlight the importance of DOT physical exams in ensuring commercial drivers are healthy and fit for duty.
Easy & Convenient DOT Exams at New Mexico Family Medicine
At New Mexico Family Medicine, we make the DOT physical process simple and stress-free. If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment, contact us online or by phone today!