DOT Physicals

Guide to DOT Physicals & What to Expect Near Lake City, IA

A DOT physical is a critical requirement for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers to ensure road safety, mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Dr. Jeff Redenius, a certified FMCSA medical examiner, offers DOT physicals in West Central Iowa near Lake City. Contact him at (712) 464-3301 (call or text) to schedule or confirm availability.

What is a DOT Physical?

A DOT physical is a medical exam required for CMV drivers to obtain and maintain their commercial driver’s license (CDL). It includes:

Medical History Review: Past conditions, surgeries, and medications.
Physical Examination:

Vision: Minimum 20/40 acuity in each eye, 70-degree field of vision.
Hearing: Ability to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet.
Blood Pressure/Pulse: Must be below 140/90 mmHg.
General Health: Checks for conditions like epilepsy, heart disease, insulin-dependent diabetes, or lung issues that may affect safe driving.

Mental/Psychological Stability: Ensures no conditions impair safe operation.
Drug/Alcohol Testing: Includes a urine dip test for sugar, protein, or blood, and screens for substances like marijuana or amphetamines.

Who Needs a DOT Physical?

You need a DOT physical if you:

Drive a vehicle designed for 15+ passengers.
Are paid to operate a vehicle for 8+ passengers.
Transport hazardous materials.
Drive a vehicle with a gross weight rating over 10,000 pounds across state lines. Unsure if you need a medical card? Check the FMCSA guidelines.

How Often is a DOT Physical Required?

A passing DOT physical grants a medical certificate valid for up to 2 years. Some conditions (e.g., high blood pressure) may require a 1-year or shorter certificate, needing more frequent renewals.

How to Prepare for Your DOT Physical

To improve your chances of passing:

Update all medications and prescriptions.
Get an eye exam if you wear glasses/contacts.
Avoid heavy alcohol or substance use.
Manage blood pressure (aim for <140/90 mmHg).
Consider quitting smoking to improve lung health.

What to Bring

Bring:

A list of current medications with dosages.
Glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids if used.
For chronic conditions, bring recent records from your managing physician, including:

Sleep Apnea: 90-day CPAP summary showing 70% compliance (4+ hours/night average).
Heart Disease: Stress test or ECHO from the last 2 years showing stable function.
Diabetes: Recent A1C (<10, within 6 months). Insulin users need a doctor’s note confirming stability.
Hypertension: Ensure blood pressure is controlled. If elevated, you may return for a recheck.

What Happens if You Don’t Pass?

Failing a DOT physical is rare. If you don’t meet requirements, you may receive a 45-day pending status to gather additional paperwork or address health issues. A recheck can then be performed to obtain your certificate.

Cost

Contact Dr. Jeff Redenius at (712) 464-3301 call or text for pricing. Currently as of October of 2025, pricing for a DOT & CDL physical is $100.

After Passing

Upon passing, Dr. Redenius will provide your medical certificate and submit it to the FMCSA.
For more details or to schedule your DOT physical with Dr. Jeff Redenius, call or text (712) 464-3301. Stay safe on the road with our help!

Dr. Redenius is a National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) registered provider.