DOT Physical Exams
Stay certified and stay on the road — fast, affordable CDL physicals.
What Is a DOT Physical?
A DOT (Department of Transportation) physical examination is a federally required health screening for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. If you hold or are applying for a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), you need a valid medical examiner's certificate to operate legally.
At Gentle Care Chiropractic, we make the process simple and convenient. Our certified medical examiner conducts thorough DOT physicals to ensure you meet FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) standards.
- Cost: $100 flat fee
- Walk-ins: Welcome (no appointment needed)
- Duration: Approximately 30–45 minutes
- Results: Certificate issued same day if qualified
What the DOT Physical Covers
The examination evaluates your overall physical and mental fitness to safely operate a commercial vehicle. Here's what we assess:
Vital Signs
Blood pressure, pulse rate, and general health indicators. Blood pressure must be below 140/90 for a full two-year certification.
Vision Testing
Visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye (with or without correction), plus adequate peripheral vision and color recognition.
Hearing Assessment
You must be able to perceive a forced whisper at 5 feet or pass an audiometric test to demonstrate adequate hearing.
Cardiovascular
Evaluation for heart disease, irregular rhythms, and vascular conditions that could impair safe driving.
Respiratory
Screening for conditions like asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, and other breathing disorders that affect alertness.
Neurological & Physical
Assessment of reflexes, coordination, range of motion, and musculoskeletal function including grip strength.
We also review your urinalysis results (for glucose and protein — not a drug test). We do not provide drug testing services.
Certification Outcomes
After your examination, you'll receive one of the following determinations:
2-Year Certification
You meet all FMCSA health standards with no conditions requiring monitoring.
1-Year Certification
You qualify but have a condition (like controlled hypertension) that requires annual re-evaluation.
Temporary Certification
Issued for 3–6 months when a condition needs short-term monitoring or additional documentation.
Requires Additional Testing
In some cases, we may need specialist clearance or further testing before certification can be issued.
Your medical examiner's certificate is issued on the spot when you qualify. We'll walk you through every step so there are no surprises.
What to Bring If You Have a Medical Condition
If you have a pre-existing condition, bringing the right documentation helps speed up the process and avoid delays. Here's what we recommend:
Hypertension
Recent blood pressure readings from your primary care physician and current medication list.
Diabetes
Latest A1C results, blood sugar logs, and a letter from your treating physician confirming stable management.
Sleep Apnea
CPAP compliance report (minimum 4 hours/night, 70% of nights over 30 days) and sleep study results.
Cardiac Conditions
Clearance letter from your cardiologist, recent stress test results, and echocardiogram if applicable.
Neurological Conditions
Seizure-free documentation (typically 8+ years), neurologist clearance letter, and current medication list.
Not sure what to bring? Call us at (503) 650-2394 and we'll help you prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about DOT/CDL physical exams at Gentle Care Chiropractic.
01 What is a DOT physical exam and who needs one?
A DOT (Department of Transportation) physical exam is a federally mandated medical evaluation required for commercial motor vehicle drivers — including truck drivers, bus drivers, and anyone operating a vehicle requiring a CDL. The exam ensures drivers meet the physical and mental health standards set by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
02 How much does a DOT physical cost at Gentle Care?
Our DOT physicals are a flat $100 fee. There are no hidden charges. We accept cash, credit card, and some insurance plans. The fee includes the full examination and your medical examiner's certificate if you pass.
03 Do I need an appointment, or do you take walk-ins?
We welcome walk-ins for DOT physicals during regular business hours. If you'd prefer a guaranteed time slot, you can also book in advance. Most exams are completed within 30–45 minutes, so you can often be in and out the same day you need your certificate.
04 How long is a DOT medical certificate valid?
Most drivers receive a two-year medical certificate. However, if you have certain medical conditions — such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea — the examiner may issue a certificate valid for a shorter period (1 year, 3 months, or less) to ensure regular monitoring. The examiner will explain your certification period and any conditions you'll need to manage.
05 What happens if I don't pass the DOT physical?
If you don't meet certification standards on the day of your exam, we'll provide documentation of your results and, where applicable, guidance on what medical conditions need to be addressed for future certification. In some cases, waivers or exemptions are available through the FMCSA. We're straightforward about results — our job is to assess your fitness accurately, not just to pass you through.
Need Your DOT Physical? Walk In Today.
Don't let an expired medical certificate keep you off the road. Our DOT physicals are fast, thorough, and affordable — with walk-in availability so you can get certified on your schedule.