DOT Physical – Frequently Asked Questions

What are DOT physicals?

Federal law requires drivers of commercial motor vehicles to receive periodic physical examinations. These exams are defined as the Department of Transportation Medical Examinations – DOT Physicals.  These exams are highly regulated and have been instituted for the drivers’ safety. DOT medical examiners are specifically trained to understand the regulations and help drivers become properly qualified.

When are we required to use the new forms?

The grace period that the FMCSA provided for using the old MER forms ended on April 20, 2016.  FMCSA now requires that drivers and medical examiners exclusively use the new forms. The old MER forms are no longer permitted.

These forms include:

Is Occupational Healthworx using the correct forms?

Yes. Occupational Healthworx medical examiners will only use the new forms. Doing this keeps us in compliance with the FMCSA. Using the new forms is required of all medical examiners in the United States. No other forms are permitted.

Can I use an old version of the forms?

No. Only the new forms are accepted by the FMCSA and state license agencies. Occupational Healthworx will have the new forms available for you at the time of your visit.

Can I add customize the new for by adding my company logo to the new forms, or make other changes?

No. Changing the new forms in any way is not permitted.

Can I use a previous or modified version of the DOT card?

No. The FMCSA will not accept them.  State license agencies may not and should not accept them. If a driver submits a non-compliant card to the state or local authorities, the driver would be considered medically unqualified.

What is “New” about the forms?

There are a few changes on the revised forms. If you’re a driver, you’ll need to:

  • Sign the new privacy statement
  • Specify if you’re a CDL applicant, CDL holder, CLP applicant, or CLP holder
  • Complete additional health history questions
  • Specify your driving territory (national or state)
  • Provide government-issued photo ID that verifies your identity, such as your commercial driver’s license

Your medical examiner will have to note if you were referred by or if they received documentation from an ophthalmologist or optometrist for vision. They’ll also have to document the type of photo ID you used to verify your identity.