Federal law requires that drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) receive periodic physical examinations. This examination is defined in regulation as the “Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Examination.” The purpose of the examination is to “detect the presence of physical, mental, or organic defects of such a character and extent as to affect the applicant’s ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.”

All medical examiners issuing medical certificates for commercial motor vehicle drivers must be certified and listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME). All BarnesCare providers have completed all NRCME certification requirements. Our providers have a thorough understanding of the regulations and can prevent individuals from being inappropriately disqualified from their livelihood. In the interest of public safety, the provider is responsible for identifying those individuals who do not meet the criteria.

BarnesCare offers the following suggestions to drivers about planning ahead to make their next DOT exam more efficient. If you have any questions before your exam, please contact a BarnesCare clinic location. We look forward to serving you.

Tips for Being Prepared for Your DOT Exam

• If you wear prescription glasses or contacts, make sure you bring them for the exam.
• If you have hearing aid(s), bring them with you to the exam.
• If you have diabetes, bring documentation of A1C of less than 10. Documentation must be less than six months old. An A1C can also be drawn at BarnesCare for $18. Results will be available the following business day.
• If you are on any prescription medications, bring the list of medication names with you.
• If you have a sleep disorder, including sleep apnea, and have been treated for it, bring a clearance statement from your sleep specialist.
• If you take blood thinners such as Warfarin or Coumadin, bring documentation that your INR has been regulated for at least the last month.
• If you have been diagnosed with heart disease, heart attack or other cardiovascular condition, bring a copy of your recent cardiac stress test results completed within the last two years.
• If you have had heart surgery (such as valve replacement, bypass or angioplasty), bring a letter from your cardiologist clearing you to drive a commercial vehicle.
• If you have a pacemaker, bring documentation of annual pacemaker check.
• If you have been diagnosed with seizures or epilepsy, bring documentation from your treating provider that you have been seizure free without taking seizure medication for 10 years.
• According to federal regulations, if you have certain medical conditions such as being treated for high blood pressure, you may qualify for a DOT card that is less than two years.

Please note: If you are required to return to BarnesCare for a follow-up visit because you did not meet the DOT regulations, there is an additional charge.