Helpful Information When Preparing For A DOT Physical San Antonio TX

By Gary Patterson


If you work in the transportation sector where you are charged with the task of ferrying people or goods from one place to the other with a motor vehicle, the DOT requires you to undergo some tests to ensure that your driving performance is up to standard. This test is crucial, especially for people who drive trucks and buses. When preparing for a DOT physical San Antonio TX drivers can benefit if they learn what the test involves.

The DOT physical can also be referred to as a DMV physical, DOT test, drivers physical or DOT exam. In compliance with the federal law, a certified and competent doctor, nurse practitioner or physicians assistant should oversee the process. Usually, the test commences with a review of the medical history of the driver, including a request to list medications taken regularly.

Some of the first tests conducted on the individual include blood pressure, pulse rate, vision and hearing tests. Drivers are required to have at least 20/40 vision in both or either eye whether they use eye glasses or contact lenses or not. Hearing wise, they are supposed to detect forced whispers from at least 5 feet away. The practitioner also checks for spine deformities. The mouth and throat are also checked to establish whether one has breathing or swallowing problems.

The other essential examinations that the examiner will conduct are neurological tests to confirm that the reflexes and coordination are normal. The examiner will also check for any impairment in the respiratory system by listening to the heart and lungs for murmurs. He or she will press your abdomen to check for abnormalities. Furthermore, the medical examiner will perform a hernia check and urinalysis to establish whether you have any underlying medical conditions.

The examiner issues a medical certificate after completing the test successfully. Typically, the certificate is valid for two years if the individual does not need monitoring medically. A 3 to 6 months certificate may also be issued and if one does not pass the test, the document is not issued.

One of the key reasons why the tests are done is to check for the presence of drugs in the drivers. It is life endangering for commercial drivers to use drugs and still carry out their duties. Vision and hearing impairment tests are also conducted. All the medical examinations done are essential in making an informed decision on whether to entrust the individuals with driving commercial vehicles.

Brain and neurological screening are also done as part of the physical to unmask any brain injuries that may affect the driver. Discovery of disorders such as seizures during the test is crucial because individuals with such problems should not have DOT medical cards. Cardiovascular screening to unmask any heart problems is another crucial reason for performing the DOT test, as individuals with serious heart issues should not operate commercial vehicles.

Generally, the tests are meant to assess the medical conditions of commercial drivers. The process examines the physical, mental and emotional health of individuals. The test poses no risk whatsoever to the individuals being tested and it can take around thirty minutes to one hour to complete.




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