DOT Physicals Performed in Tampa, FL

Smiling man sitting behind the steering wheel of a commercial truck

If you plan to operate a commercial motor vehicle, you are required to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical before you get behind the wheel. Designed to help ensure the safety of everyone who travels on our nation’s roads and highways, DOT physicals must be performed by a certified medical examiner according to guidelines established by The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The goal is to confirm that professional drivers can safely carry out their job duties with minimal risk of a known health problem causing a hazard.

DOT physicals are performed on a walk-in basis at South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL. An experienced provider—who is registered with and certified by the FMCSA—can determine whether you are physically and mentally capable of safely driving a truck, bus, limousine, taxi, or another type of commercial motor vehicle.

What Does a DOT Physical Involve?

Unlike an annual physical, which is designed to provide a general “snapshot” of your overall health, a DOT physical focuses on identifying health-related issues that could interfere with your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. In addition to discussing your medical history and evaluating your balance and coordination, your examiner will:

  • Check your pulse and blood pressure
  • Review your medication use
  • Test your hearing and vision
  • Order a urinalysis and evaluate the results to screen for diabetes and certain drugs

If you pass your DOT physical, you will receive a certificate of good health, which you must carry with you whenever you are operating a commercial motor vehicle. If you do not pass, you may not be barred from pursuing a career as a professional driver. Your examiner at South Tampa Immediate Care can explain your options. For example, if you were diagnosed with a disqualifying medical condition, you may be able to improve it with treatment, then repeat the DOT physical. Additionally, the FMCSA has driver exemption programs for some individuals who have diabetes, impaired vision, or hearing loss.

If you need a DOT physical, you can either walk in or make a reservation online with a licensed medical examiner at South Tampa Immediate Care. We also offer other types of physical examinations, such as school physicals, sports physicals, camp physicals, and pre-employment physicals.