How to Prepare For Your DOT Exam

Your routine physical might not be enough if you’re behind the wheel for work as a commercial driver. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has specific requirements that go beyond general health checks, ensuring drivers are fit to meet the physical demands and safety standards of the job.

If you need a DOT physical for work, taking a few extra steps to prepare can make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

Our team at Extended Medical Care in Dothan, Alabama, is here to guide you through the process.

Here are our five tips to help you prepare for your upcoming DOT physical:

1. Know what to expect before you arrive

Many drivers focus on the basic health check but may not realize that the exam also includes a vision and hearing screening, a check for hernias, and a neurological exam to assess balance and reflexes. The exam also reviews your medical history and blood pressure and requires a urine sample. 

If you have any ongoing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea, bring documentation from your doctor detailing how you manage them. This preparation can prevent delays and help our team make an informed decision.

2. Keep your blood pressure in check

High blood pressure is a common reason drivers fail their DOT physical. If you struggle with hypertension, take extra precautions before your exam. Avoid caffeine and salty foods 24 hours prior, get a good night’s rest, and take your medication as prescribed. 

If you have a history of high readings due to anxiety, practice deep breathing techniques to stay calm during the exam.

3. Stay hydrated, but don’t overdo it

You must provide a urine sample during your DOT physical to check for underlying health conditions like diabetes or kidney issues. 

While it’s important to be well-hydrated, drinking excessive amounts of water right before your test can dilute your sample and muddle the results.

4. Bring the proper paperwork to avoid delays

Nothing slows down the DOT physical process more than missing paperwork. Bring a complete list of medications you take and any necessary medical records, such as sleep apnea compliance reports, vision waivers, or clearance letters from your doctor if you’ve had recent surgeries or medical conditions. 

If you wear glasses, contacts, or hearing aids, bring those with you.

5. Prioritize rest the night before

Fatigue and stress can lead to elevated blood pressure and affect your overall exam performance. Get at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep the night before your DOT physical. 

If you use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine for sleep apnea, make sure you use it correctly to avoid impacting your certification. 

Book your DOT physical in Dothan, Alabama

Don’t let your DOT physical catch you off guard. Prepare for the exam to stay compliant and keep your commercial driving career on track. 

At Extended Medical Care, we provide thorough and efficient DOT physicals to help you meet federal requirements. Call our office today or schedule an appointment online.