DOT Exam Charlotte NC
Taking the DOT Exam
The DOT exam Charlotte NC is something which drivers of commercial motor vehicles are required to pass. This exam is set by the Department of Transportation, and it is intended to detect impairments - not just physical but also mental and even emotional – which could impact upon someone’s ability to drive safely.
The regulations involving driving commercial vehicles are in-depth and complex, and only certified medical examiners are permitted to perform the exam. The examination is comprehensive, involving checking vision, blood pressure, hearing, pulse and physical ability. It also includes a drug test. If someone needs hearing aids or corrective vision equipment such as glasses or contact lenses, then they should bring that equipment to the exam. Those who have pre-existing medical conditions should bring information about their diagnosis.
The DOT physical can be undertaken at any center which has a CME. That includes many doctor’s offices, physical therapy centers and some chiropractors too. There is a fee for the examination, however if you book in advance then it can be quite affordable. The results come through quite quickly.
What to Bring to The Exam
If you are in good health and do not wear glasses, contacts or hearing aids then you can just turn up to the examination. There is no need to fast before the tests. If you wear corrective aids for your sight or vision, then as mentioned before, just bring those with you.
If you have diabetes, then bring a list of the medications you take, including their dosage and strength, as well as the contact details of the doctor who prescribed them. The same applies to people who have high blood pressure.
If you have suffered from a heart attack or other forms of cardiovascular disease, then you should bring with you a copy of your most recent Exercise Tolerance test.
If you suffer from Sleap Apnea, then you should provide a copy of your most recent sleep test results.
Once you have taken the test, you will be given a copy of the paper work with instructions on how to submit your DOT medical certificate to the North Carolina DMV.
If you are taking over-the-counter medications, for any reason, then you should bring a list of that medication with you, including the strength and dosage. Over-the-counter medications include aspirin, general painkillers (NASIDs, paracetamol), antihistamines, and antacids.
The examination is not invasive and it does not take long to perform. You will be required to re-take the examination periodically if you wish to continue driving, because the test is just a snapshot of your health on that day, and your health can change. If you suffer a major change in your health – such as a Type II diabetes diagnosis, or a stroke, then it is important that you re-take the DOT to ensure that you are safe to be on the roads. Driving a commercial vehicle for a long time is hard on the body, and driving when you are unfit to do so puts your health at risk, as well as the safety of the other people who are on the roads. The DOT exam exists to protect both you and other drivers.