Hertford Chiropractic Center

252-426-1600

Washington Chiropractic Center

252-975-4601

DOT Physical Washington & Hertford NC

Drs. Elizabeth Brown and John Livingston are certified medical examiner in the FMCSA’s National Registry.  They perform DOT physicals for truck drivers and all CDL drivers and non-CDL drivers.

As of May 2014, all CDL drivers must receive a DOT physical from a certified medical doctor (CRME) that is listed on the FMCSA's website only. A DOT physical exam includes a health history, vision and hearing test, and physical exam. A urine sample will also be taken to test for protein, glucose, specific gravity (urine to water ratio), and whether blood is present.

What are you waiting for?

Unlike other clinics where you sit and wait hours and hours for your CDL physical exam, our office values your time. From start to finish, the CDL physical should take no longer than 30-45 minutes to complete. You can get back on the road as quickly as possible. Just be sure to bring the current medication list with you. If you are on a CPAP machine, a printout of the 90-day usage report is required. Be sure to bring this information with you to the physical exam.

Why Choose Us?

  • CRME Medical Examiner
  • DOT physical exam with urinalysis
  • Same Day Appointments
  • We submit the certificate to the DMV of NC for you

To help better prepare for your next DOT medical card, we have provided a checklist for you to follow.  This will help ease your mind and get you ready for your next DOT physical with a CRME medical examiner.

  • If you’re currently taking medication, gather any and all medical records from your doctor. Include dates you were diagnosed with the disease.  Also, include prescriptions you’re currently taking and the dosage.
  • If you were previously tested for sleep apnea, collect the medical records from the testing and bring them with you.  In order to get your DOT medical card, prior records for sleep apnea are needed.
  • If you’re using a CPAP machine, print out the last 90 days of usage reports. It’s best to do this the day before your CDL physical exam.
  • Be sure to have the address and phone number of your prescribing doctor. Write it down and bring it with you on the day of your CDL physical exam.
  • Get your vision tested ahead of time if you’re unsure about your vision. Make sure your vision meets the criteria to pass with or without lenses.
  • Test your blood pressure at home or at a local pharmacy. Make sure your blood pressure is under control on a regular basis.
  • Refrain from working out the day before the CDL physical exam.
  • Eat plenty of green, leafy vegetables the week before your CDL physical exam.
  • If you have high blood pressure, avoid high salt foods, red meat, caffeine, soda, and energy drinks.  Avoid nicotine at least 48 hours before the exam.  Doing all this may help lower your blood pressure reading.
  • If you have high blood pressure, take your medication.
  • Avoid any sugary foods and drinks the day of the exam.
  • If you’re a diabetic, bring a list of your medication. Also, bring sugar results or A1C results.

Sleep Apnea and Driving

As you may be aware, the FMCSA requires medical examiners to assess for sleep apnea. There are a number of effects sleep apnea has on the body.  Why is FMCSA so concerned about sleep apnea?  For one, the body isn’t getting enough oxygen for it to function properly.  Not getting enough oxygen can have lifelong effects on the human body.  Here is just a small list of what this can cause:

  • Heart Attack
  • Irregular Heartbeat
  • Stroke
  • High blood pressure
  • Asthma
  • Seizures
  • Day time sleepiness
  • Eye problems

High Blood Pressure and DOT Physical Exam

When blood pressure stays high for a long time, it effects your body. It can cause damage to your heart, brain, kidneys and eyes.  You need all these functions to operate a truck properly. Worse yet, these effects can lead to death, whether on the road or at home.  That is why the FMCSA has put so much emphasis over the years on your blood pressure.  If left untreated, it can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

 You can be a certified CDL driver even though you’ve been diagnosed.  As long as you take your medication as prescribed and it’s under control, you can be a certified CDL driver. 

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule for Washington Chiropractic Center

Washington Chiropractic Center

Monday

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday

8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday

8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Thursday

8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday

8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Saturday

By Appt.

Sunday

Closed

Washington Chiropractic Center

Monday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wednesday
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Thursday
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday
By Appt.
Sunday
Closed

Location

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Relief is a Phone Call Away

Sign-up using the form or call us at 252-975-4600 or 252-426-1600.