DOT Physicals & CDL Medical Exams

A DOT physical exam, also known as a CDL medical exam or DOT medical exam, is a federally required medical examination for commercial motor vehicle drivers. The exam is performed by an FMCSA Certified Medical Examiner to determine whether a driver meets the medical standards established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

At WholeCare Family and Occupational Health in Branford, Connecticut, we provide DOT physical exams for commercial truck drivers, bus drivers, shuttle drivers, limousine drivers, delivery drivers, and other individuals required to maintain a valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card).

Your visit may include:

• Medical history review

• Blood pressure screening

• Vision examination

• Hearing evaluation

• Urinalysis (required by FMCSA)

• Height and weight measurements

• Physical examination

• Review of medications

• Evaluation of chronic medical conditions

• Completion of your DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate when qualified

All appointments are completed efficiently so you can get back on the road as quickly as possible.

DOT physical exams are required for many individuals operating commercial motor vehicles, including:

• CDL drivers

• Semi-truck drivers

• Commercial truck drivers

• Bus drivers

• School bus drivers

• Motorcoach drivers

• Shuttle drivers

• Limousine drivers

• Commercial van drivers

• Utility vehicle operators

• Construction vehicle operators

• Drivers required by their employer to maintain a DOT Medical Certificate

Please bring:

• A valid driver’s license or government-issued photo ID

• Eyeglasses or contact lenses (if worn)

• Hearing aids (if applicable)

• A list of current medications

• Medical records or specialist clearance letters (if applicable)

• CPAP compliance report if treated for sleep apnea

• Blood sugar logs or recent A1C results if you have diabetes

• Any employer-required forms

Bringing these items helps ensure your DOT physical can be completed without unnecessary delays.

Most DOT physical exams take approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on your medical history and whether additional documentation is needed. We strive to provide efficient appointments so you can get back on the road as quickly as possible.

The cost of a DOT physical exam at WholeCare Family and Occupational Health is $125.

Please note: The examination fee covers the professional medical evaluation performed by our FMCSA Certified Medical Examiner and is due at the time of your appointment, regardless of whether you qualify for DOT medical certification.

Most healthy drivers receive a DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate that is valid for up to two years. However, certain medical conditions—such as high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, or other health concerns—may require more frequent monitoring and shorter certification periods based on FMCSA guidelines.

Yes. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is not required to receive a DOT physical exam. Many individuals who operate commercial motor vehicles or are required by their employer to meet FMCSA medical standards may need a DOT physical, even if they do not hold a CDL.

If you do not meet the FMCSA medical standards during your DOT physical exam, you will not receive a DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate at that time. Depending on the reason, you may be able to obtain additional medical treatment, provide further documentation, or receive clearance from a specialist before becoming eligible for certification.

A DOT medical card is typically valid for up to two years. However, drivers with certain medical conditions may receive a shorter certification period and require more frequent DOT physical examinations to maintain compliance with FMCSA regulations.

WholeCare Family & Occupational Health provides DOT physical exams in Branford, Connecticut, conveniently located with easy access from I-95. Our FMCSA Certified Medical Examiner performs comprehensive DOT physicals for truck drivers, bus drivers, limousine drivers, school bus drivers, delivery drivers, and other commercial motor vehicle operators throughout Branford and the surrounding communities.