626-795-6001
Driving a commercial vehicle comes with more responsibilities and regulations than personal vehicles. This includes requiring some commercial drivers to obtain a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate.
Part of DOT regulations is a certification process that is a safeguard to ensure that drivers are physically and mentally fit to operate commercial vehicles safely. But only certain commercial drivers need a medical certificate.
Who needs a DOT medical certificate?
The requirements for a DOT medical certificate aren’t universal for all commercial drivers but depend on specific criteria. You’ll typically need one if you operate a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight of over 10,001 pounds for interstate commerce.
You need a DOT medical certificate if you drive any vehicle that’s made to transport more than 15 people, including yourself, across state lines. It doesn’t matter if the trip is for compensation or not. You must have a medical certificate if you drive a vehicle that’s made to transport 9 to 15 people for pay.
If you transport hazardous materials that require the vehicle to be placarded for interstate commerce, you need a DOT medical certificate.
What’s checked during the DOT medical exam
You should expect a comprehensive health check when you go for your DOT medical exam. The healthcare professional will look at your medical history and perform a series of tests, including vision and hearing assessments, blood pressure measurements and a urinalysis. They will evaluate your cardiovascular health, look for signs of respiratory issues and test your reflexes to determine your general physical condition as it relates to your driving ability.
Why having the certificate is essential
The DOT medical certificate establishes a minimum health standard that all qualifying commercial drivers must meet, creating a uniform benchmark for health and safety. It helps to identify and address any health issues before they become problematic on the road. Finally, it helps to mitigate potential risks for commercial employers.
When questions come up about a commercial driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, the DOT medical certificate is one of the first things to check. These must remain up-to-date, which means having a full physical every 12 to 24 months, depending on their health. Commercial drivers and their employers are responsible for ensuring compliance with this regulation.
It’s important to have a law firm on your side to help guide you through these regulations. Larson & Gaston has vast experience in transportation law. Contact us to learn more.