DOT Physical: A DOT physical is a medical exam performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry to confirm that a commercial driver is healthy enough to drive safely. It results in a medical examiner’s certificate.
Why it matters to owner operators
You need a valid medical certificate to drive a commercial vehicle. How long it lasts depends on the exam results, up to two years.
Example
A driver schedules the exam a few weeks before the current certificate expires.
Related terms
Compliance & Safety: Getting set up and staying compliant keeps your truck earning. We help new carriers with broker setup packets and certificates of insurance. Talk to our dispatch team or browse the full trucking glossary.
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