DOT Physical Exam in Tennessee

The requirements to pass a physical for the DOT are set at a high standard to ensure that those who drive vehicles which are heavily loaded will not cause harm to the public.

In order to pass the exam you have to:
•You must have 20/40 correctable vision in each eye.
•You cannot be a diabetic on needle-injected insulin
Blood pressure must meet the following criteria
•140-159 for a 1 year certificate
•160-179 for a 3month temp
•Greater than 180/110 disqualifying

Those who have recently experienced unexplained blackouts may not pass the physical. The doctor may also check for muscle strength, reflexes, any back problems, issues with internal organs, chronic diseases, any acute conditions, etc. In short, you must be relatively healthy to pass the DOT physical.

Upon arrival at Dr. Tigges’s office, you should expect to fill out your DOT Physical and History paperwork.

Over the road, short haul and long haul truckers all require different physical abilities. Truckers must be able to bend, life heavy objects, handle sitting for long periods of time, and the ability to handle very high levels of stress and mental strain. Your body must have sufficient muscle tone in order support the bones in the neck, back and hips during long periods of sitting. Your cardiovascular health should be good in order to avoid the formation of blood clots while sitting.

Your visit to our Gallatin, Tennessee office for a DOT physical should be quick and easy. Walk-ins are available on the same day if we have an opening. https://samedaydot.com/

Be sure to wear comfortable clothing to your appointment. You will need to demonstrate certain physical skills, and your clothing should not be a hindrance to your movements. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for part of the physical, especially if you need to be checked for pre-existing hernias. See are Frequently asked questions: https://samedaydot.com/faq/

During your physical, it is important to tell the doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions that could interfere with your ability to work. You will be asked to provide a urine sample to check for protein or blood in your urine, this is not a drug test.

The Department of Transportation requires all drivers to pass the exam in order to receive their license. While passing the exam is a stressful for some, it will not serve you to be nervous. You will not experience pain during your exam, and most people who take the exam pass.

Dr. Tigges is one of the first in TN to become a certified DOT Medical Examiner of the United States Federal Government. The National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners requires all medical examiners performing physical examinations for interstate commercial motor vehicle drivers to be trained and certified in FMCSA physical qualification standards.

What can I expect when I get to the office for DOT physical examination?
A nurse will escort you to an examination room when the doctor is ready for you. A nurse will take your vital signs, including your blood pressure, height, weight, heart rate and respiration rate. The doctor will go over your past medical history (3 to 5 years) and your family medical history. Your doctor will notate your list of current prescription medications. He will evaluate your reflexes, hearing, vision and the strength and flexibility of your extremities.

Dr. Tigges strives to provide an efficient, streamlined exam process. Remember, there are many types of physicals. Some require much more extensive testing than the DOT physical. You should be in and out of the office within 30-45 minutes, You will most likely leave the office with your DOT Medical card in hand.

What should I bring for DOT physical?
Bring at least five years of your past medical history so that the doctor can evaluate any injuries and family history. Any medications and habits like smoking or alcohol consumption should also be included in your history. Any and all medical emergencies, especially anything dealing with fainting or a history of anxiety should also be mentioned in your evaluation.

What does the Vision test consist of?
The vision test requires you to have an ability to have a field of vision at least 70 degrees. If you have contact lenses or glasses then you have to be tested at a level of 20/40 or better.

Blood Pressure test: what happens?
With a blood pressure test you have to have a pressure of 140/90 or lower. When the doctor takes your blood pressure, they wrap a cuff around your upper arm. This cuff is then slowly tightened to measure your blood pressure. It’s painless, quick and quite simple.
Blood pressure must meet the following criteria
•140-159 for a 1 year certificate
•160-179 for a 3month temp
•Greater than 180/110 disqualifying

What is the last part of DOT physicals in Tennessee?

Dr. Tigges will examine your neurological functioning including your coordination. In some cases they may toss you a ball, have your squeeze an item tightly and in some cases they will tap your knees to see how fast your nervous system responds. Your equilibrium and neurological functioning is vastly important to your body’s overall functioning.

Whether you need a DOT exam or have other needs, Dr. Tigges’s clinic is open to new patients.

By: Dr. Michael Tigges

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