DOT Physical Exam in Valley Stream & Brooklyn, NY
RASMED Clinic provides DOT physical examinations for CDL holders and commercial drivers in Nassau County and Brooklyn, NY. Our physicians evaluate drivers against the medical standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), with same-day and walk-in appointments available.
What is a DOT Physical Exam?
A DOT physical is a federally mandated medical examination required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. It confirms that a driver meets the physical and mental health standards necessary to safely operate a commercial vehicle in interstate commerce. The examination must be conducted by a physician listed on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
Upon passing, the examiner issues a Medical Examiner Certificate (commonly called the DOT medical card), which drivers must carry at all times while operating a commercial vehicle. The certificate is valid for up to 24 months, though examiners may issue shorter certificates for drivers with conditions requiring more frequent monitoring.
What the DOT Physical Exam Tests
The FMCSA DOT physical covers the following evaluations:
Vision
Minimum 20/40 acuity in each eye (corrected or uncorrected). Ability to distinguish red, green, and amber traffic signals.
Hearing
Ability to perceive a forced whispered voice at 5 feet or more, with or without a hearing aid.
Blood Pressure & Pulse
Measurement and classification. Stage 1 and Stage 2 hypertension result in shorter certificate durations. Stage 3 is disqualifying until controlled.
Urinalysis
Urine tested for glucose (diabetes screening) and protein (kidney function). Not a drug test — this is a separate DOT-mandated process.
Cardiovascular & Respiratory
Assessment for coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, chronic respiratory conditions, and any disorders that could impair safe driving.
Neurological
Evaluation for epilepsy, cognitive conditions, and any neurological disorder that may affect alertness or driving performance.
Musculoskeletal
Range of motion and limb function adequate for operating a commercial vehicle safely.
Medical History Review
Comprehensive review of current medications, past diagnoses, surgeries, and any conditions that may affect FMCSA eligibility.
Medical Certificate Validity
Common Disqualifying Conditions
Many conditions may qualify for FMCSA exemptions. Our physician can advise on eligibility before your exam.
Dr. Mansoor Farooki, MD
With 40+ years of Internal Medicine practice, Dr. Farooki brings the clinical expertise to evaluate commercial drivers against FMCSA medical standards — including complex cases such as hypertension, sleep apnea, and diabetes — and to advise on the management and exemptions that affect certification eligibility.
DOT Physical Exam Locations
DOT physical exams available at both RASMED Clinic locations
Valley Stream
Nassau County, Long Island
139 N Central Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580
Mon–Fri 10am–5pm · Sat 10am–4pm
Brooklyn
Kings County, NYC
1199 Ocean Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Mon 10am–6pm · Tue/Thu/Fri 10am–5pm · Sat 10am–4pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about DOT physical exams for CDL holders and commercial drivers.
What is a DOT physical exam?
A DOT (Department of Transportation) physical exam is a federally mandated medical examination required for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers operating under FMCSA jurisdiction. It evaluates whether a driver meets the physical and mental health standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to safely operate a commercial vehicle. Only a Certified Medical Examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry can conduct and certify a DOT physical.
Who is required to have a DOT physical?
A DOT physical is required for drivers who operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in interstate commerce that: weighs more than 10,001 pounds (GVWR or GCWR), is designed to transport 9 or more passengers including the driver for compensation, is designed to transport 16 or more passengers not for compensation, or transports hazardous materials requiring placarding. This includes truck drivers, bus drivers, tanker operators, and many other commercial transport operators.
How long is a DOT medical card valid?
A DOT medical certificate (medical card) is valid for up to 24 months (2 years). However, the examining Medical Examiner may issue a shorter certificate — typically 12 months or less — if you have a medical condition that requires more frequent monitoring, such as controlled hypertension, diabetes requiring insulin, or sleep apnea. You must always carry your valid DOT medical card when operating a commercial vehicle.
What does a DOT physical exam test for?
The DOT physical evaluates vision (at least 20/40 corrected in each eye), hearing, blood pressure and pulse, urinalysis (for glucose and protein, not drugs), cardiovascular health, neurological function, musculoskeletal condition, and a review of medical history. The examiner also screens for conditions that may affect driving safety including sleep disorders, epilepsy, diabetes, and substance use.
What blood pressure level will fail a DOT physical?
Stage 1 hypertension (blood pressure 140–159/90–99 mmHg) allows a 1-year medical certificate with required follow-up. Stage 2 hypertension (160–179/100–109 mmHg) results in a 3-month certificate to allow treatment and re-evaluation. Stage 3 hypertension (180+/110+ mmHg) is disqualifying until blood pressure is adequately controlled. Our physicians can advise you on management options before your exam.
Can I drive with insulin-treated diabetes and pass a DOT physical?
Yes, as of 2018 FMCSA regulations, drivers with insulin-treated diabetes mellitus (ITDM) may be eligible for DOT certification through the FMCSA diabetes exemption program. Drivers must be stable on insulin for at least one month, have no severe hypoglycemic episodes, and obtain a certificate from their treating endocrinologist or primary care physician. Dr. Farooki can review your specific situation during your appointment.
What should I bring to my DOT physical appointment?
Bring: (1) government-issued photo ID or CDL license, (2) list of current medications with dosages, (3) eyeglasses or contact lenses if you use them, (4) hearing aids if you use them, (5) any specialist letters or documentation for existing medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, cardiac conditions), and (6) payment. If you have a CPAP for sleep apnea, bring your most recent compliance report.
How long does a DOT physical exam take at RASMED Clinic?
Most DOT physical exams at RASMED Clinic are completed in 30 to 45 minutes. If additional evaluation is needed for a specific medical condition, it may take slightly longer. We offer walk-in appointments and same-day scheduling at both Valley Stream and Brooklyn locations.
Have a question not answered here? Contact our team or call 718-859-7446.
Ready for Your DOT Physical?
Walk-ins welcome. Same-day appointments. Examinations to FMCSA medical standards. Valley Stream and Brooklyn.
Questions? Call 718-859-7446 or contact us online.