DOT Physicals

If you’re due for a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical, see the experts at Open Door Medical Clinic in Great Falls, Montana. Osteopathic medicine specialists Melonie Parmley, DO, Ardine Balili, PAC, and the team are certified to complete DOT physicals, allowing you to move forward with obtaining or renewing your commercial driver’s license. Call the Open Door Medical Clinic office or book an appointment online today.

What are DOT physicals?

DOT physicals at Open Door Medical Clinic are health examinations required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for obtaining a commercial driver’s license. 

These physicals ensure you’re mentally and physically healthy enough to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.

The Open Door Medical Clinic experts are certified medical examiners, which allows them to complete DOT exams and fill out the required paperwork.

Who needs a DOT physical?

You’ll need a DOT physical if you:

• Drive a motor vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people
• Get paid to operate a motor vehicle carrying more than eight people
• Drive a motor vehicle with a specific weight for interstate commerce
• Transport hazardous materials

Anyone who has to apply for or maintain a commercial driver’s license needs to complete a DOT physical exam by a certified medical examiner. 

How often do I need a DOT physical?

DOT physicals are often needed every two years to maintain your commercial driver’s license. However, if you have a chronic disease that may affect your ability to safely operate your vehicle, you might need a DOT exam yearly or more often.

What can I expect during a DOT physical?

A DOT exam is like a routine physical, but it focuses on conditions that may affect your ability to drive. 

The Open Door Medical Clinic team checks your vital signs, reviews your medical history, and completes a general physical exam. They also evaluate your vision and hearing and screen for the following conditions:

• Diabetes
• Digestive problems
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Seizures
• Sleep apnea
• Digestive problems
• Respiratory illnesses
• Vertigo or other balance problems
• Substance use disorder (SUD)

The Open Door Medical Clinic team checks for injuries, chronic pain, and other conditions that might make it difficult to sit for long periods. You may also need a drug test.

Having a chronic disease doesn’t disqualify you from obtaining a commercial driver’s license if it’s managed effectively and doesn’t negatively affect your ability to drive. 

What should I bring to a DOT physical?

It’s helpful to bring the following when you arrive for a DOT exam:

• Photo ID
• List of your medications and doses
• Glasses, contacts, or hearing aids if you wear them
• Most recent lab test results, if applicable
• Letter from a specialist (if needed) stating a chronic disease won’t affect your driving
• Form of payment

After you pass a DOT exam, your Open Door Medical Clinic provider fills out the forms needed to apply for or renew your commercial license.

Schedule a DOT physical at Open Door Medical Clinic by calling the office or booking a visit online today.