DOT Physical: Required Documents & Items to Bring

Standard Items for All Drivers

Every driver must bring these essentials to the DOT physical, regardless of medical conditions.

• Valid Driver’s License or Government-Issued Photo ID – Current and not expired.
• Current Prescription Glasses or Contact Lenses – If you need them to drive, bring both the lenses and a backup pair.
• Hearing Aid(s) – If required for daily use or driving.
• List of Current Medications – Include dosage, frequency, and prescribing doctor’s name for all prescription, over-the-counter, and supplements.
• Medical Examiner’s Certificate – If renewing or you have a previous card.

Items for Drivers with Diabetes

FMCSA has specific requirements for insulin-treated diabetes and other glucose management.

• Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Lab Results – Within the past 6 months
• Lat Blood Glucose Logs – Your most recent self-monitoring blood glucose readings (or CGM reports).
• Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment Form (ITDM, MCSA-5870) – Completed by your treating clinician if you use insulin.

Items for Drivers with Sleep Apnea

Confirmed or suspected OSA requires proof of treatment compliance.

• CPAP/BiPAP Compliance Data – Download report showing ≥4 hours use on ≥70% of nights over the past 90 days

Items for Cardiovascular Conditions

Includes heart attack, stent, pacemaker, arrhythmia, etc.

• Cardiologist Clearance Letter – Within 30-60 days, confirming stability and no symptoms that impair driving.
• Recent EKG, Stress Test, or Echocardiogram Reports – As required by condition (e.g., post-MI stress test within 6 months).
• Cardiac Medication List – including anticoagulants (with recent INR if on warfarin).

Items for Vision or Hearing Exemptions

• Federal Vision Exemption Certificate – If you have a vision waiver (monocular vision, etc.).
• SPE (Skill Performance Evaluation) Certificate – For limb impairments.
• Hearing Waiver Documentation – If applicable.

Other Common Conditions

• Seizure Disorder: Neurologist letter confirming seizure-free period (usually ≥1 year off meds or ≥2 years on meds) + EEG if recent.
• Psychiatric Conditions: Psychiatrist/therapist letter stating condition is stable and medications do not impair driving.
• Respiratory (COPD, Oxygen Use): Pulmonologist letter + recent pulmonary function tests; portable oxygen prescription if used.
• Substance Use History: SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) return-to-duty letter and negative drug screen if applicable.

Final Preparation Checklist

• ☐ Call the clinic 24 hours ahead to confirm any unclear requirements.
• ☐ Bring original documents
• ☐ Plan for around 30 minutes; complex conditions may take longer.