DOT Physical Exams

NMS Screening & Compliance provides nationwide access to DOT physical exams through a trusted network of FMCSA National Registry–listed medical examiners, helping employers and drivers stay compliant without disrupting operations.

DOT Physical Compliance Requirements

FMCSA requires medical certification for drivers who must meet federal physical qualification standards. The medical exam is generally required:

• Before a driver operates a CMV in regulated service (as applicable).
• At least once every 24 months, or more frequently when a medical examiner determines periodic monitoring is appropriate.

The examination must be performed by a medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, except for limited regulatory exceptions.

What the Exam Includes

DOT physical exams are conducted in accordance with FMCSA standards and typically include:

• Review of medical history and current medications.
• Vision evaluation (including visual acuity and peripheral vision).
• Hearing evaluation (forced whisper test or audiometric standard).
• Blood pressure and pulse assessment.
• Urinalysis for medical indicators (not a DOT drug test).
• Comprehensive physical examination assessing major systems relevant to safe CMV operation.

Medical Certification and Validity Period

If the medical examiner determines that a driver meets FMCSA qualification standards, the examiner issues a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC). DOT physical certification is generally valid for up to 24 months, and may be issued for a shorter period when closer medical monitoring is appropriate (for example, high blood pressure).

Key FMCSA Medical Standards Commonly Evaluated

Vision

Drivers must generally meet the FMCSA vision standard, including:

• Distance visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye (with or without correction).
• Field of vision of at least 70 degrees in the horizontal meridian in each eye.

Hearing

Drivers must generally be able to:

• Perceive a forced whisper at 5 feet in the better ear (with or without a hearing aid), or meet the audiometric standard in the regulation.

DOT Physical Scheduling Support with NMS Screening & Compliance

NMS Screening & Compliance streamlines DOT physical compliance by providing:

• Nationwide access through National Registry–listed medical examiners.
• Centralized scheduling support for multi-location fleets.
• Documentation coordination to support recordkeeping and audit readiness.
• Optional integration with DOT drug and alcohol testing services for FMCSA-regulated employers.

NMS OnBoard™: Centralized DOT Physical Coordination & Tracking

NMS Screening & Compliance supports DOT physical exam coordination through NMS OnBoard™, a secure, cloud-based, mobile-enabled platform that centralizes scheduling, status tracking, and documentation management. NMS OnBoard™ provides employers and drivers with visibility into DOT physical exam completion, medical examiner certificate status, and expiration timelines across locations and fleets. By consolidating DOT physical activity into a single platform, organizations can manage medical qualification requirements more efficiently while maintaining clear documentation and audit readiness.

Why Choose NMS Screening & Compliance?

• Regulatory Expertise: Our team stays current on federal and state requirements to provide accurate guidance and support compliance.
• Custom Solutions: We tailor compliance workflows to your fleet size, locations, and operational needs.
• Nationwide Coverage: Reliable access to DOT physical exams across multiple states and regions.
• Comprehensive Services: Drug and alcohol testing, consortium support, Clearinghouse support, and physical exam coordination in one place.
• Expert Guidance: Practical assistance with compliance processes and audit readiness.
• Flexible Options: Scheduling and program structures designed to reduce downtime and administrative burden.