Your DOT Exam Questions, Answered
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a waiver extension effective through February 28, 2021 for CDL license renewal for those licenses expired after March 1, 2020. At MultiCare Occupational Medicine, we are expecting more people than ever to renew their license this spring, so it’s time to plan ahead!
How long does a DOT exam take?
A typical DOT exam takes 45 minutes. This includes completing the forms, the physical examination and consultation, and printing your certificate. If there are no concerns or further referrals from the examining provider, our office will be able to certify you and issue your medical certificate.
What will be assessed at a DOT exam?
The following tests will be done during the course of your exam:
- Vision Check using a Snellen Chart
- Color vision check
- Hearing check
- Medication check
- Point of Care Urinalysis (aka “urine dip”)
- Vitals check
What should I bring to my DOT exam?Please bring the following items if they apply to you:
- Glasses or contacts you normally wear while driving.
- Hearing aids
- List of all medications
- A letter from your primary care provider to clarify which medications you are currently taking or no longer taking
- Any documentation of medical conditions
What do I eat before a DOT exam?
Healthy eating habits, cutting down on caffeine, salt and sugar are recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prepare for a DOT exam.
What if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
Some medications can pose a safety risk and may disqualify you from obtaining a medical card. If your Primary Care Provider is able to provide a letter stating the medication will not affect your ability to drive, you still may be able to obtain your medical card. If you have any of the following medical conditions, documentation must be brought to your appointment or submitted prior to scheduling. Missing documents may impact clearance.
Condition |
Documentation Needed |
| Diabetes – Not Treated with Insulin |
|
| Diabetes – Treated with Insulin |
|
| Sleep Apnea |
|
| Heart Disease |
|
| Depression/Anxiety |
|
| History of Alcohol or Substance Abuse/Rehabilitation |
|
| Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) |
|
| Medical condition treated w/Coumadin or Warfarin |
|
How long will my DOT medical card be valid after the exam?
Regulations allow for medical cards can be issued for a maximum of 24 months. Shorter cards may be issued based on the Medical Examiner’s evaluation of your specific health conditions. This may be to allow time for you to bring documentation to from your Primary Care Provider or a treating specialist. A new DOT exam is always required to issue a new medical certificate, regardless of its duration.
In some cases, the Medical Examiner may place your exam in official Pending Status. This basically pauses your exam for up to 45 days for you to return with health documentation. Pending status does not issue a medical certificate. You must return to the same clinic to complete your exam.
How can I schedule my DOT exam?
Appointments are preferred, but walk-in appointments are accommodated if there is availability in the schedule. MultiCare Occupational Medicine has 15 convenient locations across the state.
Inland Northwest: 833-602-8027
Puget Sound Region: 888-280-5513
Workforce Care You Can Count OnDesigned to meet the needs of employers and employees, MultiCare Centers of Occupational Medicine provide all the services you need from employment physicals and screenings to injury and return to work care.
Puget Sound: 888-280-5513
Inland Northwest: 833-602-8027
