Certain jobs require pre-employment physicals, such as jobs involving the transportation of goods or the public. Known as a Department of Transportation physical, DOT physicals are legally required for all drivers to ensure they are in good health and can perform their jobs safely. The distinct parts of a DOT physical, including what evaluations are performed and what tests are ordered, may be different for various jobs, depending on the duties involved.

A DOT physical is a thorough medical examination required by the Department of Transportation to operate a commercial motor vehicle in the United States. It is often the first step toward getting a commercial driver’s license, and it can help detect medical conditions that could affect an individual’s driving ability. While DOT physicals are a good idea for all drivers, they are especially beneficial for older drivers, because it can catch health problems and medications that can affect their ability to drive. Much like how a child needs a school or sports physical every year, or how a patient needs an annual physical, DOT physicals ensure the driver’s health—physical, mental, and emotional—are in good standing and will not interfere with the safety of others.

In order to perform DOT physicals and approve drivers’ DOT medical certificates, a physician must be certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). To be certified by the FMCSA, a medical examiner must be recognized by the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiner; routine training every 5 years and passing an examination every 10 years is required to maintain certification. DOT regulations are set by the FMCSA to standardize health and safety. According to DOT health regulations, CMV (commercial motor vehicle) drivers must pass a DOT physical to obtain and maintain their CDL (commercial driver’s license). During a DOT physical, a medical examiner may check the driver’s hearing and vision, evaluate the driver’s medical and mental history, and measure the driver’s blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Drug & alcohol tests may also be administered.

When offering DOT physicals, Smart Choice Medical Clinic stands out from other clinics for many reasons. We are a Certified Medical Examiner by the US Department of Transportation for commercial vehicle operators, including truck and bus drivers. Smart Choice Medical Clinic is a 5-star rated medical clinic for excellent care, with key features such as:

– Friendly, professional staff.
– Each patient is not treated as a number but is valued as an individual.
– No long wait times.
– We do not double-book appointments.
– Patients can make appointments on short notice.
– All patients are treated fairly according to the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) guidelines.
– We also offer primary care onsite, so should a medical need arise, there is no need to go elsewhere.
– We have the ability to electronically connect with specialists around the country on the patient’s behalf, which in turn will save time, frustration, and money.
– We do not accept any form of insurance but have our own out-of-pocket pricing to provide affordable care; we also offer a membership service.
– There are no hidden fees.
– Clean professional environment.
– Plenty of parking space.

If you require a DOT physical, come to Smart Choice Medical Clinic today. Our medical providers are experienced at performing DOT physicals and can help you get on the road! Call us today to book an appointment for a DOT physical, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 3347 Old Jacksonville Rd, Tyler, TX 75701. We serve patients from Tyler TX, Bullard TX, Troup TX, Jacksonville TX, Dogwood City TX, Whitehouse TX, Flint TX, and Gresham TX. We look forward to serving you!