What documents are required for your DOT medical exam?

If you're preparing for your Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam, you may be wondering: Do I need to bring any additional medical documentation? Answer: Maybe. There are times when extra medical documentation from your personal doctor is required for your DOT exam.

Is Extra Medical Documentation Required?

For drivers with certain health conditions, The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all certified medical examiners (CME) to get proof that their condition is:

• Well-controlled

• Monitored regularly

• Not impairing your ability to drive

This usually means a letter from your treating provider, PCP or Specialist.

Common Conditions That Require Medical Documentation for DOT Exam

Here’s a breakdown of the top conditions that typically require additional paperwork at your DOT physical:

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

What You Need:

• A recent blood pressure log or visit summary from your primary care provider

• Documentation showing that your blood pressure is controlled, especially if it’s above 140/90

Why It Matters - FMCSA guidelines allow certification with controlled hypertension, but anything over 180/110 is an automatic disqualifier unless treatment is shown to be effective.

Diabetes (Especially Insulin-Dependent)

What You Need:

• FMCSA Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, completed by your prescribing provider

• A1C lab results (within the past 3 months)

Why It Matters - Insulin-treated drivers must meet strict monitoring requirements and receive clearance to certify.

Sleep Apnea (CPAP Users)

What You Need:

• A CPAP compliance report showing at least 70% usage, 4+ hours/night, over a 30-day period

• A letter from your sleep doctor stating your condition is effectively treated and stable

Why It Matters - Untreated sleep apnea can cause drowsiness while driving, which is a serious safety concern.

Cardiac Conditions (Heart Attack, Stents, Bypass Surgery, Arrhythmia, etc.)

What You Need:

• Cardiologist clearance letter stating you're stable and safe to drive

• Most recent echocardiogram or stress test results, if applicable

• Details of any procedures (e.g., dates of stents, surgery)

Why It Matters - FMCSA requires specific waiting periods and documentation following heart events or procedures.

Seizure or Neurological Disorders

What You Need:

• Neurologist letter confirming seizure-free period (typically 5–10 years depending on diagnosis and meds)

• Any relevant test results (e.g., EEG, MRI)

Why It Matters - Seizure disorders can disqualify a driver unless well-controlled and medically cleared.

Vision or Eye Conditions

What You Need:

• Eye exam report if you’ve recently had eye surgery or have vision impairments

• If wearing corrective lenses, bring them (and your prescription if available)

Why It Matters - Drivers must meet minimum vision standards in both eyes (or apply for a federal vision exemption).

Hearing Loss or Hearing Aids

What You Need:

• Audiogram results or hearing specialist clearance

• Proof that hearing aids are used effectively, if applicable

Why It Matters. -Drivers must be able to hear a forced whisper at 5 feet with or without a hearing aid.

Mental Health Conditions (Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, etc.)

What You Need:

• A psychiatric or primary care note stating the condition is stable

• Current medication list and confirmation of no impairment from treatment

Why It Matters - Mental health conditions must not impair judgment or alertness, especially under stress.

Substance Use History

What You Need:

• Substance abuse counselor or addiction specialist clearance

• Documentation of completion of treatment program (if applicable)

• Drug test results or follow-up plan if in a return-to-duty program

Why It Matters - DOT holds a zero-tolerance policy on substance abuse. Prior history requires clear proof of recovery and stability.

You may need extra paperwork if you:

• Take prescription medications that cause drowsiness or have federal warnings/restrictions (ADHD meds, pain meds, anxiety meds)

• Had Recent Surgeries (especially orthopedic or neurological)

• Are Missing a Limb (or other body part)

• Recent Head Injury (concussion)

What Should the Documentation Include?

• Typed and signed by the managing provider

• On official letterhead or printed from your EHR

• The note must clearly contain:

  • Your Diagnosis

  • Date of Diagnosis

  • Most Recent Event

  • Treatment Plan

  • The doctor must state: 1-Your condition is stable, and 2-You are "safe to operate a commercial vehicle"

How to Prepare for Your DOT Exam

1. Make an Appointment!: Make an appointment on our Booking page. If no times match your schedule, call us for accommodations.

2. Know your Medications: Either bring a list of all prescriptions, over-the-counter meds, and supplements, or write them in on the form.

3. Get your Doctor Notes Now!: Don’t wait until the day of the exam—some providers need several days to prepare clearance letters.

We Make DOT Exams Easy in Naples, FL

At Harmony Health Clinic, we help drivers all across Florida, from Naples to Miami, and all of Collier County, to stay on the road. Our certified medical examiner will guide you through every step.

Need a fast, hassle-free CDL exam?

📞 Call us today or book online to schedule your DOT exam.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional or your certified medical examiner for personalized guidance.