Comments By Michael S.

Michael, blood pressure is a big issue on DOT exams. How is your BP? Get your doctor to help you if it’s a problem. The first number can’t be above 140. Research BMI, body mass index. This can determine if a company will require you to use a CPAP machine. Also, get your blood sugar levels checked. Too high or too low can really affect your ability to drive.

My BP is good, but I was assigned a CPAP a few months ago - sleep like a baby now :). As for the sugar, doc says I'm "borderline" need to lose some lbs. :(. Hope that doesn't hold me back. Also, I'm getting the forms from the FMCSA website for my Dr.'s to fill out in regards to medications. So, we will see how it all goes. I'll keep you guys posted. Thank you all for the great advice. Have a great today. Blessings to all. Michael S.

Duck walk???? That sucks, I had my ankle fused about 6 months ago and I still have a bit of a limp. Well, what the heck, I'm going to go for it. I'll set up an appointment for the next couple of days. I'll let you guys know how it goes :). Thanks all for the info. Wish me luck :).

That's typically done at orientation, not when you get your physical. Once you start applying for carriers drivers that have been through orientation there can provide specifics on what was expected.

Are you planning on going through a private school or Paid CDL Training Programs? We highly recommend paid training because as long as you're able to pass school you're almost guaranteed to have a job waiting for you. Not that it applies in your situation, but far too often someone gets their CDL through a private school and can't land a job due to their past criminal, driving record, or work history. Meanwhile they're out the $5,000 or more without a job to show for it. With paid training it often times is free if you fulfill your end of the agreement, typically working for them for 1 year but double check the terms before signing!

I'm hoping to get the "Paid Training" route. I live in the Dallas area, and I've heard that Roel has a facility nearby, think I'll check them out. First things first though, need the Med. card, and the Permit :). I really appreciate your input.

Duck walk???? That sucks, I had my ankle fused about 6 months ago and I still have a bit of a limp. Well, what the heck, I'm going to go for it. I'll set up an appointment for the next couple of days. I'll let you guys know how it goes :). Thanks all for the info. Wish me luck :).

How "physical" is it? Do I have to do like 50 squats and 100 pushups...lol

Some companies will have specific testing that you go through based on the job you want. When I did food service (very physically demanding) I was ran through several exercises lifting weights, climbing a ladder and several other things with my heart rate being checked like a minute after each. For most jobs that don't require you to unload by hand you'll only be expected to "duck walk" under the trailer to prove you can inspect under the trailer and double check the 5th wheel is fully closed. You'll also likely be required to prove you can climb in the trailer. Other than that your DOT physical is a vision test, blood pressure, urine test to check for protein/diabetes (pre employment physical usually uses sample for drug test as well) and then listening to various parts of your body with a stethoscope. The doctor that does my physicals does not check male genitalia for hernias but he does press on your abdomen. Your hearing will be tested by the examiner standing a few feet away and saying words in a forced whisper that you need to repeat back. The DOT physical isn't very different than a regular checkup with your primary doctor.

You appear to be in better shape than many of the drivers we see at truck stops. For most jobs there isn't any age (after you're 23) or weight discrimination. As long as you can pass a physical and are a safe driver there won't be a problem getting hired.

Cool!!! I couldn't do 5 Squats or 10 pushups if my life depended on it...lol. Thanks all.

No pushups and stuff. It’s similar to a well visit check up at doctor. Eye sight, hearing, blood pressure, urine proteins, general mobility

Ty, I'll check out that code, but I was wondering mostly about the physical aspect of it. How "physical" is it? Do I have to do like 50 squats and 100 pushups...lol

I'm wanting to get back to work after "having had" to retire a little early. How difficult are the medical exams to pass? I'm in my 60's, a little over-weight, but pretty good shape otherwise. Thanks for looking.

It's not difficult at all. Just a matter of not having a disqualifying health condition (FMCSA has a list of disqualifying conditions on its site. 49 CFR 391.41 is the code to reference) and having vital signs that are within an acceptable range. Waivers can be obtained for some disqualifying conditions, but not all. FMCSA site has information on that, as well.

Ty for your response.

I’m 63 and was just recertified.

I'm wanting to get back to work after "having had" to retire a little early. How difficult are the medical exams to pass? I'm in my 60's, a little over-weight, but pretty good shape otherwise. Thanks for looking.

I'm wanting to get back to work after "having had" to retire a little early. How difficult are the medical exams to pass? I'm in my 60's, a little over-weight, but pretty good shape otherwise. Thanks for looking.

Well, im new here so I haven't gotten around to all the ins and outs of it. Basically, was just doing readings and tests. I just thought I'd ask the "friendly" truckers forum. for some info. Didn't mean to get some of you all "fitty."

Sorry it seemed that way, Michael. With all the new ELDT laws ... started this week, the Canada / US border protests, ... tensions tend to be high.

I apologize, for the gang.

Simply, it helps us help YOU .. at least knowing your state. For instance, if you were in Ohio, or one of 'our' tri states... I'd have a TON of suggestions.

Knowing that you are in Texas; I can already suggest you look at Texas Tim and Mountain Matt's diaries. They hail from your state, and will have similar situations as you are approaching.

Old School as WELL !!!! He's our HUGEST moderator / contributor from Texas, writes blogs, and drives for Knight. (So do the other guys, so...there's a HUGE suggestion~

Here's one of his most famous blogs, worth it's weight in GOLD: Busting the FREE AGENT Myth:

Hope that makes sense;

We are here to help!

~ Anne ~

ps: YES on the tests here! The BEST of the best!

• Truck Driver's Career Guide
• Brett's Book: The Raw Truth About Trucking (free online version)
• High Road CDL Training Program
• CDL Practice Tests

When you're ready to tackle the pre trip:

• Pre-Trip Inspection Study Guide
• Daniel's Pre-Trip Inspection
• Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
• Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Questions

pps: I've noticed (from our Knight drivers on here) that Texas is NOT a state trying to 'hem you up' with extra regulations, like Washington, if that helps!!

Cool, Thanks. I learning plenty by reading a lot of the blogs and forum stuff. I'll check out those Texas boys :). TY

Where do I get the physical I need for DOT? From my PC, or some DOT assigned physician? Thanks Mike

This is why those posting questions should include their location in their profile. There may be participants who can give specific recommendations about who to see or not to see in their area. For instance, I have a great place to get a DOT physical (thank you Marc Lee) near Milwaukee and a place to avoid at all costs in Madison. People, update your profile! Nobody will stalk you, honestly.

Good point Bruce. It would help with some of the answers if we knew where a new member was located.

Incidentally, I'm parked for tonight at the Petro in Portage, WI.

Well, im new here so I havent gotten around to all the ins and outs of it. Basically, was just doing readings and tests. I just thought I'd ask the "friendly" truckers forum. for some info. Didnt mean to get some of you all "fity."

Where do I get the physical I need for DOT? From my PC, or some DOT assigned physician? Thanks Mike

Hi, Mike!

Welcome to Trucking Truth!

MANY companies prefer you to go to THEIR DOT physician; do you know who you are going with yet?

Also, there's an approved list for each state (you didn't list yours) for doctors/providers, per the DOT / FMCSA.

Here's the link; hope this helps! National Registry of CME's

~ Anne ~

Im in Texas, and thanks for the reply.