Table of Contents
Why would someone need a DOT physical?
A DOT physical helps determine if a driver is physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to operate a CMV. And for your safety and the public’s safety, FMCSA requires you to complete and pass a DOT physical to maintain a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).
What size truck requires a DOT physical?
The weight criteria for when a CDL medical exam – the DOT physical – is needed is 10,001 pounds. Therefore, interstate drivers operating vehicles with a weight of 10,001-26,001 pounds, which doesn’t include hazmat, will need to pass a CDL medical exam, but do not need to have a CDL license.
Who needs a DOT certification?
Companies that operate commercial vehicles transporting passengers or hauling cargo in interstate commerce must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT Number. Also, commercial intrastate hazardous materials carriers who haul types and quantities requiring a safety permit must register for a USDOT Number.
How can I get my CDL without a medical card?
If you select either the “EA” or “EI” box, you will be able to keep your CDL without submitting a current medical card. If/When you return to driving a commercial vehicle and you need to carry a medical card, you must resubmit a DL-11CD, Self-Certification Form, along with a copy of your valid medical card.
How much does a DOT number cost?
There is no fee for a USDOT number. However, if your business requires operating authority, you may require an MC number and/or other designations that do require fees. Generally speaking, companies that do the following are required to have an MC number: Operating as carriers for-hire.
How often is a dot physical required?
Since DOT physicals are required at least every two years, your health records will be part of your road map to certification, especially if you were considered borderline in previous years.
Who needs a DOT medical card?
Who Needs a DOT Medical Card. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) requires commercial drivers who fall under the following categories to obtain medical cards for CDL : When your vehicle has a gross weight of 10,001 or over. The vehicle which you are driving can seat over 15 passengers. When receiving immediate payment for transporting over 8 passengers.
Is a dot physical required in order to get CDL?
Due to the strict DOT physical requirements, commercial operators are generally required to pass the CDL physical exam on a regular basis. For example, in order to maintain the validity of commercial licenses in Vermont, drivers will be required to pass the DOT physical exam on a two-year basis, as mandated by federal regulations.
How long is a DOT medical card good for?
• A DOT medical card is good for two years if you have no restrictions. A history of high blood pressure, taking high blood pressure medications, and/or taking oral medications for diabetes can restrict the medical card to one year.