What a DOT physical checks
The DOT physical is the medical exam required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for anyone operating a commercial motor vehicle. It's performed by a certified medical examiner and confirms you're physically able to drive safely. The exam covers:
- Vision and hearing
- Blood pressure and pulse
- Urinalysis (for medical markers — this is not a drug test)
- Review of your health history and any medications
- A hands-on physical evaluation
When you pass, you receive a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC), valid for up to 24 months. The examiner may issue a shorter card when a condition like high blood pressure needs monitoring.
What to bring to your DOT physical
- Photo ID
- A list of any medications you take (and prescribing doctor info)
- Glasses, contacts, or hearing aids if you use them
- If applicable: paperwork for conditions like diabetes (blood sugar logs), sleep apnea (CPAP compliance), or heart/vision conditions (specialist notes)
Same-day card, honest price
California prices DOT physicals higher than most states, and some clinics pile on hidden fees. We keep it simple: a transparent flat price, no appointment needed, and your certificate the same day. We also submit your results as required so your card is on file the way FMCSA expects.
Need testing too? Bundle it.
Getting hired or joining a carrier? You'll likely also need a DOT drug & alcohol test, and owner-operators need to be in a random testing consortium. We can handle all of it in one visit.