PRIME: DOT TESTING REGULATORY STANDARDS

Federal law under the Department of Transportation requires that operators of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) receive regular physical examinations. DOT physicals are highly regulated and designed to detect physical, mental, and emotional issues that can affect a driver’s ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. PRIME DOT medical examiners are trained to understand regulation and are focused on preventing operators from being inappropriately disqualified.

It is required that operators and drivers have a valid DOT card which means that a CMV cannot legally operate unless they have been cleared for the road. DOT physicals will keep your drivers FMCSA* compliant while helping ensure driver safety.

*FMCSA – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

+ All commercial drivers of vehicles in interstate commerce with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating of over 10,000 pounds (4,536 kilograms) are required to obtain and maintain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (ME Certificate).

+ CDL holders must submit a “self-certification” to their State Driver’s Licensing Agency (SDLA), to declare that they only operate or expect to operate commercially in 1 of 4 possible categories. For more information, see Self-Certification FAQ’s.

+ CDL holders must provide their SDLA with a copy of their medical exam (ME) certificate. This information is only being added to the State driving records of CDL holders.

+ Non-CDL holders are not required to self-certify or submit a copy of their ME Certificate to their SDLA.

+ CDL holders, who are found driving in a category other than one to which they self-certified, are subject to suspension or revocation of their commercial driving privileges.

+ CDL drivers, who do not update the expiration date of their ME Certificate with their State, will have their commercial driving privileges downgraded, and will not be eligible to drive a commercial motor vehicle that requires a CDL.

Instructions on how your state is collecting your ME Certificate information can be found here:
State-by-State Instructions for Submitting Medical Certificates to the State Driver Licensing Agencies

DOT PHYSICAL: KEY INFORMATION

Commercial Driver Requirements

All commercial drivers of vehicles in interstate commerce with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating of over 10,000 pounds (4,536 kilograms) are required to obtain and maintain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (ME Certificate).

Driver Medical Certification

Drivers receive a medical certification which is normally valid for 2 years. Your medical exam will be transmitted and stored electronically in the Commercial Driver’s License Information System

Self-Certification

Drivers will be required to submit a “self-certification” to their state driver’s licensing agency (SDLA), to declare their intent to drive commercially in 1 of 4 possible categories.