Just my .02 regarding DOT physicals

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by CalculatedRisk, Aug 28, 2026.

  1. CalculatedRisk

    CalculatedRisk Heavy Load Member

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    good evening,

    It's been a long time since I posted. Where I've been is irrelevant. However, as I prepare to get my latest DOT physical. I'd like to offer some sound advice to new drivers getting their DOT physical.
    To begin, some places charge close to $200 for one. you might get your Primary Care to do your DOT physical. so, if you're on any type of meds, you need a release Stating you are safe to drive a commercial motor vehicle and have been stable on said medication's.

    Also, if you wear glasses, you can get an alternative form from the DMV to have your Eye Doctor sign. in addition, from my experience in Florida, they are pretty strict at the DMV when it comes to your physical being submitted meaning it must be filled out correctly 110% no errors on there otherwise they are sending you packing.

    whoever you do your physical with, it's best to go over anything. Let's face it, if there's ever an accident, the first places The lawyers are gonna go our where you got the physical and your doctors. Nothing is sacred when it comes to driving a commercial motor vehicle of any kind.

    I'm not trying to scare anybody off. I'm just trying to let you guys know that it's best to have your eggs in a row. call the place that does the physicals if you're unfamiliar with what to expect.

    i'll save you that trouble. You're going to pee in a cup, do a vision test and make sure you don't have diabetes. like I mentioned before, it's best to visit your doctors, and make sure you have all the proper documentation needed so you don't have to keep on going back. I've done a DOT physical in a day, go to the DMV and I was good to go.

    I hope this helps some new drivers.
     
    tscottme Thanks this.
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  3. Ridgeline

    Ridgeline Road Train Member

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    The examiner needs to be registered with the US DoT.
     
  4. Lonesome

    Lonesome Mr. Sarcasm

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    Is that right?
     
    firemedic2816 and Grumppy Thank this.
  5. singlescrewshaker

    singlescrewshaker Road Train Member

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    Snellen
    20/20 line
    Lmao
     
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  6. Speedy356

    Speedy356 Medium Load Member

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    That’s the 20/20 line!
    Ask me how I know:D
     
  7. D.Tibbitt

    D.Tibbitt Road Train Member

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    U cannot walk in to the dmv and submit ur med card anymore...the doctor has to send it directly to the fmcsa
     
  8. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    Are you saying you could pass the eye test over the phone? ;-)
    It pays to also know the 20/30 line in case they ask you to confirm your abillity to read the 20/20 line. There's no good reason you couldn't also read the 20/30 line.
     
    wis bang, drh72, Trucker61016 and 2 others Thank this.
  9. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    It pays to practice saying, I mean seeing, it in reverse.
     
  10. Speedy356

    Speedy356 Medium Load Member

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    Yes in a heartbeat. I always just acted like I was struggling thru the 20/20 line, they just said ok!
     
    singlescrewshaker Thanks this.
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