How to Prepare for a DOT Physical in Charlotte, NC
Being well-prepared for your DOT Physical can help reduce stress and increase the likelihood of passing without any issues.
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What to Bring to Your DOT Exam
The Basics (Every Driver)
Valid Driver’s License or CDL License
Vision and Hearing
Glasses or Contacts: If you need them to drive, bring them. You must have at least 20/40 acuity in each eye.
Hearing Aids: If you use them, bring them and ensure they have fresh batteries for the “whisper test.”
Medications
The List: Include the medication name, the exact dosage, and the prescribing doctor’s name and address.
Note on “Red Flag” Meds: If you take anything that can cause drowsiness (some anxiety meds, muscle relaxants, or ADHD medications like Adderall), you should bring a letter from your prescribing doctor stating that the medication does not interfere with your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
Waivers and Exemptions
SPE Certificate: If you have a missing limb or impairment that requires a Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) certificate, you must have the physical certificate with you.
Federal Exemptions: If you have a federal vision or hearing exemption, bring the paperwork.
Special Medical Conditions
Diabetes (Insulin)
Form MCSA-5870 (Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment) filled out by your treating doctor, plus a recent HbA1c (usually within the last 3-6 months) and blood sugar logs. Diabetes Requirements
Sleep Apnea
A compliance report from your CPAP machine covering at least the last 30 to 90 days. It must show you use it at least 4 hours a night on 70% of nights. Sleep Apnea Requirements
Heart Issues
A clearance letter from your cardiologist and results from your most recent stress test or EKG (usually within the last year). Cardiac Requirements
High Blood Pressure
Ensure you’ve taken your meds. To pass, your BP needs to be under 140/90. If it’s higher, you might only get a 3-month or 1-year certificate. High Blood Pressure Requirements
Mental Health
A letter from your psychologist or psychiatrist confirming your condition (depression, anxiety, etc.) is stable and that your medications do not impair your driving. Mental Health Requirements
Neurological Issues
If you’ve had a stroke, seizure, or traumatic brain injury, you need a clearance letter from a neurologist.
Condition
What You Need to Bring
Diabetes (Insulin)
Form MCSA-5870 (Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment) filled out by your treating doctor, plus a recent HbA1c (usually within the last 3-6 months) and blood sugar logs. Diabetes Requirements
Sleep Apnea
A compliance report from your CPAP machine covering at least the last 30 to 90 days. It must show you use it at least 4 hours a night on 70% of nights. Sleep Apnea Requirements
Heart Issues
A clearance letter from your cardiologist and results from your most recent stress test or EKG (usually within the last year). Cardiac Requirements
High Blood Pressure
Ensure you’ve taken your meds. To pass, your BP needs to be under 140/90. If it’s higher, you might only get a 3-month or 1-year certificate. High Blood Pressure Requirements
Mental Health
A letter from your psychologist or psychiatrist confirming your condition (depression, anxiety, etc.) is stable and that your medications do not impair your driving. Mental Health Requirements
Neurological Issues
If you’ve had a stroke, seizure, or traumatic brain injury, you need a clearance letter from a neurologist.
Diabetes (Insulin)
Form MCSA-5870 (Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment) filled out by your treating doctor, plus a recent HbA1c (usually within the last 3-6 months) and blood sugar logs. Diabetes Requirements
Sleep Apnea
A compliance report from your CPAP machine covering at least the last 30 to 90 days. It must show you use it at least 4 hours a night on 70% of nights. Sleep Apnea Requirements
Heart Problems
A clearance letter from your cardiologist and results from your most recent stress test or EKG (usually within the last year). Cardiac Requirements
High Blood Pressure
Ensure you’ve taken your meds. To pass, your BP needs to be under 140/90. If it’s higher, you might only get a 3-month or 1-year certificate. Blood Pressure Requirements
Mental Health
A letter from your psychologist or psychiatrist confirming your condition (depression, anxiety, etc.) is stable and that your medications do not impair your driving. Mental Health Requirements
Neurological Issues
If you’ve had a stroke, seizure, or traumatic brain injury, you need a clearance letter from a neurologist.
How to Prepare Before Your DOT Exam
Stay hydrated - Drink plenty of water
Get a good night's rest
Skip the coffee in the morning
Take your medications as prescribed
Eat a healthy breakfast
How to Prepare Before Your DOT Exam
Stay hydrated - Drink plenty of water
Get a good night's rest
Take your medications as prescribed
Skip the coffee in the morning
Eat a healthy breakfast
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