DOT physical confusion for new driver

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by AteamDRIVER80, Jan 27, 2024.

  1. AteamDRIVER80

    AteamDRIVER80 Bobtail Member

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    I had orientation this past Tuesday with Werner in Bethlehem PA. I didn’t expect to have a complete physical done since I already had a valid medical card. I answered no for every question on my long forms. When I got to see the doctor I talked about some medical history. Basically it got to me talking about prior drug use and medications, and he walked me out and talked to safety because I wanted to know if that would disqualify me from getting hired. The doctor and the safety department let me know that they can not move forward with me.

    Overall my question is, will the doctor’s records be kept in some database till the time of my next physical wherever/whenever that may be?

    I am now scared to apply in the field because I don’t want to be accused of lying. I was unaware of the severity of the paperwork/physical.

    FYI I did not receive any paperwork or anything stating disqualification afterwords. My hope is they shredded the whole thing.
     
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  3. Lonesome

    Lonesome Mr. Sarcasm

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    I would be surprised, if the whole thing was shredded....
     
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  4. 201

    201 Road Train Member

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    Well,, I don't think it's time to panic. The prior drug use was the killer here, but I wouldn't be too concerned about any future limitations, I doubt it went any further than the wastebasket, but in the future, :biggrin_25516:, like talking to a cop, DON'T give too much information. If they ask about prior drugs, and there's no record of it, I'd say nothing. I know, it goes against what we were taught, but in a case like this, grandma always said, "a lie well stuck to is better than the truth", and sometimes that's true. I say the system is incredibly unfair in that regard and the industry is missing out on a lot of good drivers. Maybe someday that will change.
     
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  5. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    We preach on here for new drivers to not talk so much. Stop volunteering information. Should have told the doctor you never used drugs, don't drink and have never smoked cigarettes.
    `
    Were you applying for cdl school or a driving job?
    Do you still have your DOT medical card or did you surrender it to the doctor?
     
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  6. snowmantrucking101

    snowmantrucking101 Heavy Load Member

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    Loose lips sink ships......keep em closed!
     
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  7. AteamDRIVER80

    AteamDRIVER80 Bobtail Member

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    I have a medical card from 2 months ago, got it when enrolling into school. Completed school and Werner was my first orientation in the industry. Now I’m going onto western express and that is set for February 21. Hopefully there’s no physical there I ALREADY HAVE A MED CARD lol
     
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  8. Moosetek13

    Moosetek13 Road Train Member

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    Most of those type companies will require a new physical.
     
  9. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Good decision. Hang in there with Western Express for 6 - 12 months before changing jobs. I think the flatbed division gets more miles than dry van division.
     
    bryan21384 Thanks this.
  10. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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    Don’t be this guy:

    IMG_5850.jpeg
     
  11. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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    If your medical card is valid, you’re good. Don’t let them bully you into going to there facility. AND….. like already mentioned, KEEP YOUR LIP BUTTON.
     
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