A DOT physical is a federally required medical exam that determines whether a commercial driver is medically fit to operate a commercial vehicle. Crosby Chiropractic & Acupuncture Centre performs DOT physicals in St. Peters, MO with a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry, and issues your medical certificate the same day when you pass.
If you drive a commercial vehicle, your DOT medical card is what keeps you legal on the road. This page explains what a DOT physical is, who needs one, what the exam covers, how long your card lasts, and how to get one locally without a long wait.
What is a DOT physical?
A DOT physical is a medical examination required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for anyone who operates a commercial motor vehicle. Its purpose is straightforward: to confirm that a driver is healthy enough to safely operate a large vehicle without a sudden medical event putting themselves or others at risk.
The exam must be performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. When you pass, you receive a Medical Examiner’s Certificate – commonly called a DOT medical card – which you need to keep or obtain your commercial driver’s license.
Who needs a DOT physical?
You generally need a DOT physical if you drive a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce that meets certain thresholds. In practice, that includes most commercial drivers, and many employers require one regardless.
You typically need a DOT physical if you:
- Hold or are applying for a commercial driver’s license (CDL)
- Drive a vehicle rated over 10,001 pounds
- Transport quantities of hazardous materials that require placarding
- Drive a vehicle designed to carry a certain number of passengers
- Are required by your employer to hold a current DOT medical card
If you are not sure whether your situation requires one, your employer or motor carrier can confirm, and we are glad to help point you in the right direction.
What happens during a DOT physical?
A DOT physical reviews your health history and checks the areas most relevant to safe driving: vision, hearing, blood pressure, and a urinalysis, along with a general physical examination. It is focused on fitness to drive, not a comprehensive check-up.
Most drivers are in and out efficiently. For a full breakdown of each part of the exam and how to prepare, see our guide on DOT physical requirements and what to expect.
What should I bring to my DOT physical?
Bringing the right paperwork keeps your visit quick and prevents a return trip. At minimum, bring a photo ID and a list of your current medications with dosages and prescribing doctors.
If any of the following apply to you, bring documentation: glasses or contacts (bring them), hearing aids, and records from your treating physician if you manage a condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a sleep disorder. Drivers who use a CPAP machine should bring their compliance data. Having these on hand lets the examiner certify you on the spot rather than asking you to come back.
How long is a DOT medical card valid?
A DOT medical card is valid for up to 24 months. However, if you have a medical condition that needs monitoring – high blood pressure is the most common example – the examiner may issue a certificate for a shorter period so your health can be rechecked sooner.
This is a normal part of the process and not a failure. A shorter card simply means the examiner wants to keep an eye on something. Keeping that condition well managed is the best way to qualify for a longer certification at your next exam.
Can a chiropractor perform a DOT physical?
Yes. Any qualified provider – including a chiropractor – can perform DOT physicals as long as they are a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. The certificate you receive is identical regardless of the examiner’s profession.
Our exams are performed by a certified DOT medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. We explain how this works, and why it is completely valid, on our page: can a chiropractor do a DOT physical.
How much does a DOT physical cost?
Our DOT physical is $125. It is a self-pay service, since a DOT physical is an employment requirement rather than treatment for a medical condition, and we accept CareCredit as a form of payment. You can read more about what is included on our DOT physical cost page.
DOT physicals in St. Peters, MO
Crosby Chiropractic & Acupuncture Centre has served St. Peters and St. Charles County since 1995. We perform DOT physicals for commercial drivers with a certified medical examiner on the FMCSA National Registry, and we know drivers value getting it done quickly.
We are located at 331 Jungermann Road in St. Peters, and see drivers from O’Fallon, St. Charles, Dardenne Prairie, Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and throughout the St. Louis metro area. To schedule your DOT physical, call (636) 928-5588 or request an appointment online.
Frequently asked questions about DOT physicals
How long does a DOT physical take?
The exam itself is usually quick – most drivers are finished within about 30 minutes, assuming no additional documentation is needed. Bringing your medication list and any records for managed conditions is the best way to keep it fast and avoid a follow-up visit.
Is a drug test part of a DOT physical?
No. A standard DOT physical includes a urinalysis, but that test checks for underlying medical conditions, not drugs. DOT drug and alcohol testing is a separate process, usually arranged through your employer. The two are often confused but are not the same thing.
What happens if I don’t pass my DOT physical?
Depending on the reason, you may receive a shorter-term certificate, be asked to provide additional information from your doctor, or need to address a specific issue before certification. The examiner will explain exactly what is needed. Many drivers who need follow-up are certified once the item is resolved.
Do I need an appointment for a DOT physical?
An appointment is the most reliable way to be seen promptly. Call us at (636) 928-5588 and we will get you scheduled quickly – often the same week.
How often do I need a DOT physical?
At least every 24 months, and sooner if your medical certificate was issued for a shorter period due to a condition being monitored. Keep track of your card’s expiration date, since driving on an expired medical card can put your CDL status at risk.
Can I get a DOT physical if I have high blood pressure or diabetes?
In most cases, yes. Well-managed conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes usually do not disqualify you, though they may mean a shorter certification period so your health can be monitored. Bring documentation from your treating doctor so the examiner has the full picture.
Reviewed by Dr. Jenny Crosby Wiemann, DC, President, Crosby Chiropractic & Acupuncture Centre. Read Dr. Crosby’s full bio.
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical or regulatory advice. FMCSA requirements can change; your certified medical examiner will apply the current standards to your individual situation.
