DOT Physical

Find a DOT-Certified Medical Examiner

Before you can get your CDL, you need a DOT physical from a certified medical examiner. All examiners must be on the FMCSA National Registry.

What Is a DOT Physical?

A DOT physical is a medical examination required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for all commercial motor vehicle operators. It confirms that you meet the minimum health standards to safely operate a commercial vehicle.

The exam must be performed by a licensed medical examiner who is listed on the FMCSA National Registry. Your regular physician can perform the exam only if they are certified and listed on the registry - otherwise, you must find a listed examiner.

What to Bring

  • - Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
  • - Complete list of all current medications and dosages
  • - Prescription glasses or contact lenses if you use them
  • - Medical records for any chronic conditions (diabetes, sleep apnea, etc.)
  • - Your USDOT number if you're an owner-operator

How Long It Takes

Approximately 30–45 minutes

Typical Cost

$75 – $150 out-of-pocket

What They Check

Vision

At least 20/40 in each eye (with or without correction), adequate field of vision.

Hearing

Able to perceive a forced whispered voice in the better ear at 5 feet or more.

Blood Pressure & Cardiovascular

BP must be below 140/90 for a full 2-year certificate. Higher readings may get a shorter certificate.

Medical History

Conditions like sleep apnea, diabetes, epilepsy, and certain medications require additional review.

How to Get Your Medical Certificate

01

Find an examiner on the FMCSA National Registry

Search by zip code at nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov. Only certified medical examiners on this list are authorized to issue a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate.

02

Schedule your appointment

Most examiners are available within a few days. Call ahead - some require fasting bloodwork, which affects scheduling.

03

Receive your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC)

If you pass, you'll receive a paper MEC (Form MCSA-5876) and a wallet card. Your examiner submits results to FMCSA electronically within 24 hours.

Search the FMCSA National Registry

Official U.S. government site - nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov

Next Steps Toward Your CDL

Find a Texas DPS Office

After completing your ELDT and getting your Medical Certificate, head to a DPS office to take your CDL knowledge test.

View DPS offices

Start Your ELDT Training

Complete your FMCSA-required theory training online, on your schedule. Your certificate is submitted to FMCSA automatically.

Enroll Now - $1,500