A DOT exam is a physical required by the Department of Transportation for people who will be operating certain types of vehicles. The purpose is to ensure the safety of the driver, passengers, and others on the road. If you’ve never heard of this exam or the Department of Transportation is requiring you to get one, you might be wondering why and what happens during this physical. The team at Dodd Chiropractic Clinic in Jacksonville, FL provides this quick guide to answer your questions.

Who Needs a DOT Exam?

Typically, you’ll need a DOT exam if you operate a vehicle that carries more than 15 people – such as a church bus. You’ll also need one if you’ll be driving a commercial vehicle that transports hazardous materials, carries more than eight passengers, or weighs 10,000 pounds or more, including the load. In short, you’ll need a DOT exam if you will be making your living driving a commercial truck – otherwise known as an 18-wheeler – or a passenger bus like a Greyhound.

What Does a DOT Exam Include?

In addition to your medical history, the following will also be checked during your physical:

• General appearance – for any signs of potential medical issues
• Height and weight
• Blood pressure
• Vision and hearing
• Mouth, throat, eyes, and ears
• Heart, lungs, and chest
• Abdomen, back, and spine
• Joints and extremities
• Circulatory system
• The nervous system
• Reflexes
• Hernias and other potential issues in the urinary and genital system
• Gait

A urinalysis will typically be performed to check for issues with things like sugar, protein, and blood. If there are any signs of trouble, you might need additional testing.

Visit Your Jacksonville, FL Chiropractor for Your DOT Exam

If you need a DOT exam, schedule an appointment with Dodd Chiropractic Clinic by calling (904) 388-1811 today.