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3 Considerations For Your DOT Physical

by Bonnie Gordon

If you drive trucks or other commercial vehicles for a living and want to be sure that you are able to remain properly licensed and certified, you will need to stay on top of your health. This will give you the chance to protect yourself any time that you drive and you are also legally required to receive a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical on a periodic basis. To learn some tips that will help you pass this physical with flying colors, read on and follow these guidelines. 

#1: Be Mindful Of Your Blood Pressure

There are a number of steps that you will need to keep in mind in order to keep your blood pressure levels passable for your DOT physical. This is one of the main criteria that DOT medical examiners key in on. If you take medication, be sure that your prescription is current and that you are taking it. Leading up to the physical, be sure that you avoid substances that can elevate your blood pressure levels, including cigarettes, coffee and energy drinks. Further, fix your diet and avoid eating salty foods that can exacerbate your blood pressure. 

#2: Stay On Top Of Your Physicals And Avoid Waiting Until The Last Minute

It is best to find a few DOT medical examiners in your area far ahead of time and set up an appointment for the physical. Any setback or delay can cause you to fall past your particular exam period, which may affect your ability to make a living until you get the physical. Know the law in your state, so that you know how frequently you need a physical. Each state has different timetables, which may be every 2 years or so. 

#3: Be Prepared To Take A Drug Test

A drug test is part of the DOT exam, so be prepared to give a sample. Depending on your jurisdiction, you may be required to give urine or hair samples. In most situations, the test will be looking for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines and other such substances. The urine test will also look for other such health issues, such as diabetes, which can drastically affect your ability to drive trucks or other commercial vehicles as a career. 

Consider these three keys, so that you are able to make sure that you are able to get the most out of your physical and to know what to expect.   

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