How to get a DOT certification

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires truckers to complete and pass these tests in order to maintain commercial truck driving licenses.

Here are the steps to get a DOT certification:

• Contact an approved medical provider. The DOT certification requires you to complete physical exams via an approved medical provider.

  Typically, interstate drivers complete their physicals through FMCSA-certified medical examiners (CMEs). Different states have different requirements, and Intrastate drivers must complete their physicals with their state's approved providers.

  It's very important to research your state's requirements and the list of approved medical and health providers able to give you your physical.

• Complete the DOT physical exam. Try to find an approved provider close to your location to take your DOT physical exam.

  This can also help you to complete your exam and submit your certification for approval in a timely fashion. In general, drivers make their own appointments and then receive medical cards to submit to the DOT.

• Submit your DOT medical card to the DMV. There are different requirements for submitting your DOT to your DMV, depending on the state in which you live.

  Most drivers have the opportunity to submit their medical cards via:

  • In-person

  • By mail

  • Using fax

  • Email

  Remember, there might be a time limit to submit your medical card in your state, so you should try to do this as soon as possible.