People often ask: Does DOT physical drug test in 2022?
The reason is that workplaces are now strict with their policy.
Well, you are at the right place because this guide will provide an answer to your question.
Read further to find out.
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Does DOT Physical Drug Test In 2022 – Best Answer
DOT is an acronym for the Department of Transport for individuals that drive a commercial vehicle.
This answer is no, DOT doesn’t run physical tests although they do if strictly required by the employer.
DOT is expected to recruit only those that are physically and medically fit for the job.
Some agencies and companies still need that affirmation so they request a test and this test is required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
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Who Requires A DOT Physical Exam?
The DOT physical drug test is needed by all commercial drivers, required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
This test is one that helps them ascertain the eligible candidates that are qualified for the job.
All commercial drivers in an association are headed by Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), so the test is unavoidable.
What A DOT Physical Exam Entails
You will be interviewed by a doctor on a series of questions regarding your health, and all vital questions and tests will be done.
They might ask things like, if you were into drugs, any medical condition you had that they should know of, your weight, hearing, lungs, heart, blood pressure, height measurement, vision, nervous system, and more would be part of the physical exam.
As your urine sample would be needed to perform the test on you.
The DOT drug screen detects drugs categorized into 5 classes according to FMCSA, the classes include:
- Methamphetamine
- Amphetamine
- Marijuana
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
- Cocaine
- Opiates (derivatives of codeine and opium)
And also a drug test that checks for alcohol may be included, it depends on what they need and the specific job you are taking on.
The alcohol test is used to identify the blood alcohol concentration of 0.02 percent or higher.
Factors That Could Disqualify You From Passing DOT Physical
Certain factors are capable of getting you disqualified, and they are some medical conditions you may have.
Some medical conditions can ruin your chance of getting a job even if you passed the drug test.
A few of the known medical conditions that can hinder your chances are;
- Diabetes
- Sleep disorder
- High blood pressure
- Epilepsy
- Marijuana habit
- Kidney disease
- Vision loss
- Hearing loss
- Seizures
- And lots more.
How To Prepare To Pass DOT Physical Drug Test
For you to be able to pass the DOT physical drug test to avoid any drug that is considered illegal.
And you also need to check your health condition before applying, a personal drug and health test is advised.
The necessary test you need to perform could be
1. A history of blood sugar levels if you have diabetes
2. If you wear spectacles, a detailed list of all the medications you take, along with their dosage.
3. A heart condition report if you had any.
4. Your neurosurgeon must give written approval if you have a brain tumor or any other condition that affects the brain.
And other vital information that could affect you while you are on your day’s job.
What Happens If You Test Positive For Drugs During A DOT Physical?
If you are tested positive for any of the drugs, you are mostly unable to get the job, or if so you may get fired.
This is the reason why it is advised to avoid any kind of drug that’s prohibited.
Especially with the fact that your job description requires you to be responsible for the lives of others.
FAQs
Does Everyone Who Drives a Truck Need a DOT Physical?
You need a DOT physical to obtain your CDL license.
You’ll need a CDL if the overall vehicle weight rating of the vehicle is 26,0001 pounds or more, or if you’re towing a vehicle that weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
You’ll also need to have a CDL if you drive a vehicle that can carry more than 24 passengers at once.
You’ll need to have a CDL to drive a vehicle that carries hazardous waste, or one that carries liquid or liquified gases.
So For safety purposes, your employer may ask you to obtain a DOT physical even if the vehicle you drive doesn’t meet the requirements for a CDL license.
Can You Pass a DOT Physical if You Have Diabetes?
If you have type II diabetes that’s curbed with just oral medication alone, you’ll be able to pass your DOT physical.
But, if you have type I diabetes or use insulin to control your type II diabetes, you will not be able to receive your required certificate.
How Often Do You Need a DOT Physical?
Every two years you’ll need to have a DOT physical in order to maintain your license.
If you have certain health conditions like hypertension, you may need to have a test done annually.
Do You Need to Pass a Drug Test to Pass Your DOT Physical?
You won’t have to pass a drug test to obtain your DOT physical unless your employer requires it as aforementioned in this text.
Do You Need to Pass a DOT Physical if You Relocated to Texas?
The medical certificate you received in another state is still valid when you move to Texas.
But Sometimes your employer may want you to pass a DOT physical from their chosen medical examiner.
What Does Your Pulse Have To Be To Pass a DOT Physical?
The driver may not be qualified, even temporarily, until blood pressure is reduced to equal to or less than 140/90 and treatment is well tolerated.
Can I Lower My Blood Pressure Quickly For A DOT physical?
There are several ways you can lower your blood pressure to allow you to pass the DOT physical;
1. Lose unnecessary pounds
2. Regular Exercises will help
3. Reduce sodium levels
4. Eat healthily
5. Limit alcohol intake
6. Stop smoking
7. Use a blood pressure monitor
Conclusion
And it’s a fact that the DOT physical exams are very important for drivers although it is time-consuming.
If you have any opinions or suggestions regarding this topic please drop them in the comment section.