Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals are a necessary prerequisite for commercial vehicle drivers who want to get on the road. At Pavilion Family Medicine, John Ribadeneyra, MD, and Deanna Brown, FNP, offer DOT physicals conveniently in their Montrose, Colorado, office. Book your DOT physical online or call the office to set up your appointment today.

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What is a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical?

A DOT physical is a health exam that certifies you’re healthy enough to operate a commercial vehicle safely. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)-certified providers at

Pavilion Family Medicine offers DOT physicals to help Colorado residents get the documentation they need to get on the road.

Who needs a DOT physical in Colorado?

People driving the following vehicles need to pass a DOT physical:

  • Vehicles with gross vehicle weight rating of more than 26,000 pounds
  • Vehicles transporting hazardous materials, regardless of vehicle weight
  • Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more total passengers

Your employer informs you whether you need a DOT physical based on the vehicle you’ll be using for work.

What does a DOT physical consist of?

DOT physicals include vision and hearing tests, a blood pressure check, a vital sign check, and a complete physical exam.

DOT exams also include a urinalysis. The DOT urinalysis checks for underlying health problems like Type 2 diabetes. However, your employers must get a negative drug test before they allow you to drive a commercial vehicle. So, it’s generally most convenient to have your drug test simultaneously with the DOT physical.

During your medical history review, you’ll answer questions about your health, verifying whether you have ever had issues with any of the following conditions.

  • Head injuries
  • Seizure disorders
  • Eye problems
  • Hearing problems
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Diabetes
  • Heart issues
  • Lung disease
  • Kidney problems
  • Breathing issues
  • Digestive issues
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Nerve problems
  • Mental health problems
  • Fainting
  • Joint problems
  • Cancer
  • Stroke
  • Sleep disorders
  • Neck problems
  • Back problems
  • Headaches
  • Alcohol or drug use

The DOT physical concludes with your examiner completing the medical examination report form (form MCSA-5875). The examiner signs it with their name and certification number. You can then submit the form to the Department of Transportation.

How often do I need DOT physicals?

You need a DOT physical every two years.

What if I don’t pass my DOT physical?

Certain medical conditions can cause DOT exam failure. But, many of those conditions are treatable with weight loss, exercise, medication, or minimally invasive procedures.

For example, if you have diabetes and uncontrolled blood sugar levels, you can start a diabetes management regimen, including insulin if needed, and schedule another DOT exam in several months.

Call Pavilion Family Medicine or click on the online booking to arrange your DOT exam now.