DOT physical exams near Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania are routinely performed at Stine Chiropractic Clinic. Our team of board-certified chiropractic orthopedists are registered as FMCSA Certified Medical Examiners, allowing us to perform Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals in full compliance with federal guidelines. We routinely evaluate commercial drivers who need timely, accurate certification in order to continue working safely and legally.
Walk-in DOT physicals are welcome, and our priority is efficiency without sacrificing accuracy. We understand that commercial drivers depend on their DOT medical card to remain on the road, and delays can result in lost income and unnecessary stress. Our clinic serves drivers throughout Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, and surrounding areas.
What Is a Certified Medical Examiner?
A Certified Medical Examiner (CME) is a healthcare provider who has completed federally required training and testing to perform DOT physicals under FMCSA regulations. When obtaining a CDL or DOT physical near Fredericksburg or Spotsylvania, drivers should always verify that the examiner is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
Certification ensures that the examiner understands FMCSA medical standards, disqualifying conditions, and certification timeframes. DOT medical cards cannot legally be issued by providers who are not certified medical examiners. Drivers may verify examiner status through the FMCSA registry.
What to Expect During a DOT / CDL Physical
A DOT physical begins with a detailed health history form completed by the driver. This includes current and past medical conditions, prescription and non-prescription medications, prior surgeries, and known illnesses. It is essential that this information is provided fully and honestly.
DOT physical requirements, health history form.
Omitting information—whether intentional or accidental—can prevent the examiner from properly evaluating medical fitness and may place the driver and others at risk. Accurate disclosure allows the examiner to determine whether additional documentation or testing is needed.
DOT Physical Requirements Explained
DOT physical requirements are comprehensive and designed to ensure that drivers can safely operate commercial motor vehicles. One required component is urinalysis. This is not a drug test. It screens for glucose, protein, blood, and specific gravity, which may indicate conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or dehydration.
Vision testing is another critical requirement. Drivers must demonstrate at least 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. Color vision is assessed to ensure the driver can recognize traffic signals, and peripheral vision must meet minimum FMCSA standards.
Vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate are measured. Blood pressure is a common reason for shortened certification. In most cases, a reading of 140/90 or lower qualifies for full certification, though this may vary depending on medication use
Different stages of hypertension and their values.
What to Bring to Your DOT Physical
To avoid delays, drivers should bring:
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Glasses or contact lenses (if prescribed)
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Recent lab results (A1C, glucose, etc.), if applicable
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Medical clearance letters for recent surgeries or new medications
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Sleep study reports and CPAP compliance data, if applicable
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A current list of medications and their purposes
Some medications have restricted or off-label uses under DOT regulations, so accurate information is essential.
Common Issues That Delay DOT Certification
The most frequent issues encountered during DOT physicals include:
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Elevated blood pressure
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Forgetting corrective lenses
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Glucose detected in urine
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Excess ear wax preventing ear examination
Many of these issues can be resolved quickly if addressed early.
How Often Is a DOT Physical Required?
DOT medical certification is typically valid for:
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Up to 2 years for healthy drivers
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1 year or less for drivers with certain medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or sleep apnea
Certification length is determined by FMCSA guidelines and medical findings.
Important Timing Considerations
Drivers are strongly encouraged to schedule their DOT physical at least 45 days before their current medical card expires. This allows time to gather documentation if additional evaluation is required and may permit a determination pending period if applicable.
Waiting until the last minute can result in unnecessary certification failure and lost driving time.
What Happens If You Do Not Pass a DOT Physical?
Failing a DOT physical does not permanently disqualify a driver. In most cases, certification can be granted once the underlying issue is corrected and properly documented.
Drivers should discuss next steps with the medical examiner and follow the recommended plan of care promptly.
Schedule Your DOT Physical
If you need a DOT physical near Fredericksburg or Spotsylvania, contact Stine Chiropractic Clinic today. Same-day appointments may be available.
📞 Call 540-898-4100
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs a DOT physical?
Any commercial driver operating a vehicle regulated by the FMCSA must maintain a valid DOT medical certificate.
How long does a DOT physical take?
Most DOT physical exams take approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
Is urinalysis a drug test?
No. Urinalysis screens for health indicators only.
What vision is required to pass?
At least 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without corrective lenses.
What blood pressure is required?
In most cases, 140/90 or below qualifies for full certification.
Can I still pass with high blood pressure?
Some drivers may receive temporary or shortened certification.
How often is a DOT physical required?
Typically every one or two years depending on health status.
What if I have diabetes?
Additional documentation may be required depending on control.
Is sleep apnea disqualifying?
No, if properly treated and documented.
Do I need to bring glasses or hearing aids?
Yes, if prescribed.
Can I walk in for a DOT physical?
Walk-ins may be available depending on scheduling.
What happens if I fail?
Most failures are temporary and correctable.
Can I drive while paperwork is pending?
Only if you qualify for a determination pending period.
How long is a DOT medical card valid?
One or two years depending on medical conditions.
Why should I schedule early?
To avoid certification lapses and lost driving time.
