Is It Time for Your DOT Exam?
We Do FMCSA Driver Certification Examinations
We are fortunate to have a Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Examiner at Alexandria Natural Health Center. Dr. Christopher Larson (NRCME #3150429043) is certified with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to perform Driver Certification Examinations in accordance with their standards. The roll of the Medical Examiner is to determine that the driver meets the basic qualifications to ensure safety to the public.
Who Needs a DOT Exam?
Medical certification in accordance with the FMCSA physical qualification standards is required when the driver is operating a commercial vehicle in interstate commerce that:
Has a combined gross vehicle weight or weight rating of 10,000 lbs. or more.
Is designed or used to transport 9-15 passengers (including the driver) for compensation.
Is designed or used to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) whether for compensation or not.
Transports hazardous materials in quantities that require placarding under the hazardous materials regulations.
When a driver returns from an illness or injury that interferes with driving ability, the driver must undergo a medical examination even if the medical examiner's certificate has not expired.
Come Prepared for Your Examination
Here are some things to be aware of going in to your examination to avoid a delay in certification:
The examination requires a urinalysis, so be prepared to provide a urine sample when you arrive.
Your blood pressure will be taken.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, be sure to have them with you for the vision examination.
A hearing test will be given. If you wear hearing aids be sure they are working and be prepared to test while wearing them.
If you have sleep apnea, you must present a printed report from your CPAP machine for the past 60 days. If you are unsure how to get this report, speak to the medical provider or facility that provided you with the machine.
You are required to list all medications you are taking, bring a list if you are unsure. Be sure to include the dosage.
Be prepared to give a complete medical history including any surgical procedures you have undergone.
If you are on blood thinners, such as Coumadin or Warfarin, you are required to present an INR report in order to proceed with the certification.
Regardless of tests done prior to the exam, the results of the tests done at the examination are the only ones that count.
While there are many conditions and ailments that may disqualify your from being certified, there are often approaches we can take to achieve certification. These could be through waivers, physical assessments, or medication changes.
Contact Alexandria Natural Health Center today and schedule your DOT exam with Dr. Christopher Larson to obtain your FMCSA Driver Certification.