What Not to Do Before Your DOT Exam

To have a commercial driver's license in Florida, you will need to pass a Department of Transportation exam, otherwise known as a DOT exam. These physicals will determine whether you are healthy enough to operate vehicles on the Jacksonville roads.

What Gets Checked?

A certified DOT exam could test for the following:

• Vision
• Hearing
• Blood pressure
• Drug testing
• Cardiovascular health
• Neurological function
• Mental health

All of these factors will inform your employer about whether you would make a safe driver. At Dodd Chiropractic Clinic, we perform DOT physicals for those who are interested in earning a commercial driver's license. In order to pass the DOT exam, you will need to know how to prepare and what not to do before the exam.

What to Avoid Before Taking a DOT Exam

As a driver, you will want to turn in honest and accurate results for your DOT physical because not doing so could endanger the lives of those you encounter on the road. Driving should never be taken lightly due to its dangerous nature; this is particularly true for those who transport hefty commercial equipment. Let’s look at the main behaviors to avoid while preparing for a DOT exam:

• Avoid taking drugs and alcohol, especially in the weeks leading up to the physical.
• Avoid eating foods with high amounts of salt or sodium. This could skew your blood pressure results.
• Don't eat excessively huge meals.
• Don't drink caffeinated beverages like coffee or energy drinks. These stimulants can impact your blood or cardiovascular results.
• Avoid any extreme physical actions. Engaging in risky behavior could result in an injury.
• Don't try to hide your medical information.

If you try to hide any medical conditions while taking the exam, this will be grounds for disqualification. Be honest about your health standards, as it is important for the examiner and the employer to know whether any medical conditions could interfere with your ability to drive.

Take Your DOT Physical in Jacksonville, FL

If you are looking for a certified examiner to provide a DOT exam in Florida, contact our team at Dodd Chiropractic Clinic. We perform DOT exams that accurately measure your vitals. While you are here, you can also seek chiropractic care for any chronic conditions that could make driving more difficult. Call our team today at 904-388-1811 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.