If you're a truck driver, bus operator, or commercial vehicle driver in Houston, you need a valid DOT physical exam to obtain or renew your CDL license. At Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale, we perform this exam with 100% Spanish-speaking staff, no appointment needed, and same-day results.
What Is a DOT Physical Exam?
The DOT (Department of Transportation) physical is a mandatory medical examination required by the federal government for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. Its purpose is to verify that you are in adequate health to safely operate a large vehicle.
This exam is different from a regular checkup. It's specifically designed to evaluate the physical capabilities needed to drive a truck, bus, or commercial vehicle for extended periods.
Who Needs a DOT Physical?
You need a DOT physical if you:
- Drive a truck weighing more than 10,001 pounds
- Operate a bus with a capacity of 16 or more passengers
- Transport hazardous materials (HAZMAT)
- Need to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) for the first time
- Need to renew your CDL medical card (every 2 years or as directed by your doctor)
What Does the DOT Physical Include?
During the exam, our physician will evaluate the following areas:
Vision
- Visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye (with or without glasses)
- Peripheral vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye
- Ability to distinguish traffic signal colors
Hearing
- Must perceive a forced whisper at 5 feet
- Hearing aids are permitted if needed
Blood Pressure
- Measured during the exam
- Elevated blood pressure may result in a shorter certification period (1 year instead of 2)
- Very high blood pressure may require treatment before certification
Urinalysis
- Tests for glucose and protein levels
- This is not a drug test (drug testing is conducted separately by your employer)
General Physical Examination
- Cardiovascular evaluation (heart and lungs)
- Neurological evaluation (reflexes, coordination)
- Musculoskeletal evaluation (strength, mobility)
- Abdominal examination
- Hernia evaluation
Medical History
- Current and past conditions
- Medications you take
- Previous surgeries
- History of seizures, diabetes, heart problems
Conditions That May Affect Your Certification
Some medical conditions may affect the duration of your certificate or require additional documentation:
Diabetes
- If you manage your diabetes without insulin (diet, exercise, or oral medication only), you can generally receive a 2-year certificate
- If you use insulin, you need a special exemption from FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
High Blood Pressure
| Blood Pressure Level | Certification |
|---|---|
| Under 140/90 | 2 years |
| 140-159/90-99 | 1 year |
| 160-179/100-109 | Temporary certification, treatment required |
| 180/110 or higher | Not certified until controlled |
Sleep Apnea
- If diagnosed with sleep apnea, you must bring documentation showing you're using your CPAP machine
- Your doctor may require results from a recent sleep study
Vision Problems
- If you need glasses or contact lenses, your license will have a restriction requiring you to wear them while driving
- If you cannot achieve 20/40 even with correction in one eye, you may apply for a vision exemption
What Documents Should You Bring?
To make your exam quick and hassle-free, bring the following:
- Photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
- List of medications you currently take (name, dose, frequency)
- Glasses or hearing aids if you use them
- Recent test results if you have conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, or heart problems
- Name and contact of your primary care doctor (if you have one)
How Much Does the DOT Physical Cost?
At Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale, we offer the DOT physical at affordable and competitive prices. The cost includes:
- Complete physical examination
- Urinalysis
- DOT medical certificate (form MCSA-5876)
- Driver's medical card
We accept cash and all major credit and debit cards. Many trucking companies cover the cost of the exam for their drivers — check with your employer.
How Often Do You Need to Renew?
- Standard certificate: every 2 years
- With medical conditions (controlled high blood pressure, non-insulin diabetes): may be every 1 year
- If your certificate has expired: you need a complete new exam before you can drive
Tip: Don't wait until your medical card expires. Schedule your renewal at least 2 weeks before the expiration date to avoid being unable to work.
What If I Don't Pass the Exam?
If the doctor determines you don't meet the requirements at the time of the exam, you have options:
- High blood pressure: You may receive a temporary certificate while starting treatment. Return when your pressure is controlled.
- Vision problems: Get prescription glasses and return for re-evaluation.
- Insulin-dependent diabetes: Apply for the special FMCSA exemption with help from your endocrinologist.
- Other conditions: The doctor will explain exactly what you need to get certified.
At Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale, we never turn you away without explaining what to do next. We give you a clear plan to resolve any situation and obtain your certificate.
Why Choose Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale for Your DOT Physical?
100% in Spanish
The entire process — from check-in to receiving your certificate — is in Spanish. No translator needed.
No Appointment Needed
Come when it's convenient. We're open Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 9 PM. This is especially helpful for truck drivers with irregular schedules.
Same-Day Results
Leave our clinic with your DOT medical certificate and medical card in hand. See full details on our DOT physical exam for CDL license page. No waiting days or coming back for another visit.
Affordable Prices
We offer competitive prices without sacrificing exam quality. We accept cash and cards. If your employer also requires drug and alcohol testing or an electrocardiogram, you can get everything done in the same visit.
Convenient Location
We're located at 7040 Lawndale St # B, Houston, TX 77023, near I-45 (Gulf Freeway) and Loop 610, with ample free parking for trucks and large vehicles.
Experience with Hispanic Truck Drivers
We understand the specific needs of Houston's Hispanic trucking community. Many of our patients are drivers who trust us for their renewals year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions About the DOT Physical
Does the DOT physical include drug testing?
No. The DOT physical exam and drug testing are two separate things. We perform the physical exam. Drug and alcohol testing is your employer's responsibility or done through a testing consortium.
Can I get a DOT physical if I have diabetes?
Yes, if your diabetes is controlled with diet, exercise, or oral medications (no insulin). If you use insulin, you need a special FMCSA exemption.
What if my blood pressure is high on exam day?
If slightly elevated, the doctor may issue a 1-year certificate instead of 2. If very high, we'll recommend treatment and you can return when it's controlled.
Do I need an appointment?
No. We accept walk-ins Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 9 PM.
How long does the exam take?
Approximately 30-45 minutes. You leave with your certificate the same day.
Do you accept walk-ins for renewals?
Yes. Both new exams and renewals are accepted without an appointment.
Contact Us
Ready for your DOT physical? Visit Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale today:
- Phone: (832) 530-4188
- Address: 7040 Lawndale St # B, Houston, TX 77023
- Hours: Monday through Sunday, 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- No appointment needed — Walk-ins welcome
Your health and your license are in good hands at Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale.
Need medical attention?
We're here to help. Call now to schedule your appointment or visit our clinic without an appointment.
Call now: (832) 530-4188
