Answers to the questions drivers ask most.
Have questions before your DOT physical? This page answers the most common questions drivers ask before coming in for a DOT physical exam or medical card renewal.
A DOT physical is a medical exam for commercial drivers. It helps determine whether a driver meets the physical qualification standards needed to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle. The exam may include health history, medication review, blood pressure, vision, hearing, urinalysis, and a physical exam.
Drivers who operate certain commercial motor vehicles may need a valid DOT medical certificate. This can include CDL drivers, commercial drivers, over-the-road drivers, local delivery drivers, bus drivers, and other drivers required by their employer or DOT/FMCSA rules to maintain a medical card.
First-time DOT physical exams are $65. DOT physical renewals are $55.
No. Cash is not accepted.
We accept Zelle. Credit cards are accepted with a $5 processing fee.
Bring a valid photo ID or driver's license, your current DOT medical card if renewing, a list of medications and dosages, glasses or contacts if you wear them, hearing aids if you use them, and any medical documents related to conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, heart conditions, or recent surgery.
If you are concerned about your blood pressure, it is best to avoid coffee, energy drinks, nicotine, and other stimulants right before your exam. Caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure in some people. Eat normally unless your doctor has told you otherwise, and take prescribed medication as directed by your doctor.
In general, blood pressure under 140/90 may qualify for up to a 2-year DOT medical certificate. The medical examiner makes the final decision based on FMCSA standards and your overall health.
Blood pressure from 140–159 / 90–99 may result in a 1-year certificate. Blood pressure from 160–179 / 100–109 may result in a one-time 3-month certificate while you work with your provider to lower it. Blood pressure over 180/110 is disqualifying until controlled. These are general guidelines, and the medical examiner makes the final decision.
Many drivers can still qualify while taking blood pressure medication, as long as the condition is controlled and the medication does not interfere with safe driving. Bring your medication list and take your medication as prescribed.
Yes. A urinalysis is typically part of the DOT physical. It helps check for certain health indicators such as sugar, protein, blood, and specific gravity. It is not the same thing as a drug test unless a separate drug test is ordered.
No. A DOT physical and a drug test are different services. The DOT physical is a medical fitness exam. A drug test may be required separately by an employer or regulation.
Most DOT physical exams are fairly quick, but timing can vary depending on paperwork, medical history, blood pressure, and whether additional documentation is needed.
A DOT medical certificate may be issued for up to 2 years if the driver meets the standards. Some drivers receive a shorter certificate, such as 1 year, 6 months, or 3 months, if monitoring is needed for conditions such as blood pressure or other medical concerns.
Diabetes does not automatically mean you cannot qualify. Bring your medication list and any recent diabetes-related records if available. If you use insulin, additional documentation may be needed.
Bring your CPAP compliance report if you have one. The medical examiner may need to review whether the condition is being properly treated.
Bring them to the exam. Vision screening is part of the DOT physical, and corrective lenses may be noted on your medical certificate if needed.
Bring them to the exam. Hearing screening is part of the DOT physical, and hearing aids may be considered during the exam.
Yes. DOT Physicals LA helps commercial drivers, including over-the-road drivers, local drivers, delivery drivers, and drivers renewing their medical card.
Yes. Drivers often renew before expiration to avoid problems with work, CDL status, or employer requirements.
The medical examiner will explain the issue. In some cases, the driver may need additional documentation, treatment, or follow-up before certification can be completed.
No. No provider should guarantee a DOT medical certificate. The final decision depends on the medical examiner's review and DOT/FMCSA standards.
Please call (323) 899-0171 to confirm appointment availability or whether walk-ins are accepted that day.
We are located at 502 South La Brea Ave, Inglewood, CA 90301. Please call us if you need help finding parking near our office.
Please call (323) 899-0171 to confirm current hours and availability.
Still have questions before your DOT physical? Contact DOT Physicals LA and we will help you prepare before you arrive. You can also read more about what to expect at your DOT physical exam.