DOT Medical Exams in Dripping Springs, TX: What You Need to Know
If you’re a commercial driver in the Dripping Springs, TX area (including Belterra or Driftwood) and you’re looking into a DOT Medical Exam, you’re not alone. At Evolve Chiropractic, we understand the pressure of staying compliant—while maintaining your health and peace of mind. A proper DOT Medical Exam in Dripping Springs, TX not only keeps you on the road legally, but helps ensure you’re physically ready for the demands of commercial driving. In this post, we’ll walk you through what the exam involves, how it relates to your CDL, why it matters for you locally, and how we can assist you in getting your DOT Medical Card efficiently and safely.
What is a DOT Medical Exam (and Why It Matters)
Understanding the DOT Medical Exam
The exam commonly called a DOT Medical Exam is a physical assessment required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). According to the FMCSA, a certified medical examiner must perform the exam for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. FMCSA+1
This exam determines whether you’re medically qualified to drive a commercial vehicle, and if you pass, you receive a medical examiner’s certificate (sometimes referred to as your DOT Medical Card). Cleveland Clinic+1
In our Dripping Springs, TX practice, we emphasize that it’s not just about passing the exam — it’s about maintaining your health and mobility so you can keep working.
Who Needs It and How Often
If you drive a vehicle for interstate commerce or one that meets certain weight or passenger-capacity thresholds, you’ll need the exam. Comprehensive Primary Care+1
Typically, the certification is valid for up to 2 years, unless a condition requires shorter monitoring. Cleveland Clinic+1
At Evolve Chiropractic, we see drivers from Dripping Springs and surrounding areas like Belterra and Driftwood who want the Same Day Med Card option — meaning we aim to complete the exam and issue the certificate in one appointment when possible.
What’s Covered in the Exam
What to Expect During the Exam
When you come in for your DOT physical at Evolve Chiropractic in Dripping Springs, TX, here’s what we’ll cover:
Review of your medical history (including surgeries, medications, chronic conditions) Cleveland Clinic+1
Vital signs: blood pressure, pulse rate, height & weight Concentra+1
Urinalysis (to check for underlying issues such as diabetes) Concentra
Eyes & vision, hearing tests (standard: at least 20/40 vision, hearing at a certain threshold) CVS+1
Physical exam: heart, lungs, abdomen, musculoskeletal (spine, extremities), neurological, etc. Concentra
If you have certain conditions (like insulin-treated diabetes or sleep apnea), we’ll ask for additional documentation. Cleveland Clinic
Local Example
During one exam at our Dripping Springs clinic, a driver who is also training for CrossFit competitions (and was worried about his blood pressure) came in. After reviewing his history and checking his vitals, we were able to identify slightly elevated blood pressure, gave him an action plan (including lifestyle suggestions), and issued his CDL Med Card on the same day. That driver now comes back every two years and we’ve helped him stay compliant and healthy.
Don’t Pass? What Happens Then
When You Don’t Qualify Right Away
Failing or not immediately qualifying for your DOT Medical Card doesn’t mean your career is over. In fact:
You might receive a certificate for less than two years (e.g., one year, six months) if the examiner wants periodic monitoring. Cleveland Clinic
You may be asked to return after further treatment or documentation if you have a condition needing follow-up. Lincoln Urgent Care
Key point: Being honest about your health history increases your chances of a favorable outcome and avoids unexpected delays.
At Evolve Chiropractic, we pair the exam with wellness suggestions (posture, back health, etc.) so you’re more likely to pass comfortably and maintain your health on the road.
Why Choose Evolve Chiropractic in Dripping Springs, TX
Why Local Drivers Trust Us
Our lead chiropractor, Jackson Humphrey, DC, CCSP is a former collegiate athlete and certified chiropractic sports practitioner. With that background, we understand the physical demands of active professionals — including drivers.
We offer the Same Day Med Card option: we schedule your DOT exam, complete the paperwork, and issue the medical examiner’s certificate in one efficient visit.
We’re located in Dripping Springs, TX, and proudly serve nearby areas like Belterra and Driftwood for convenience and continuity.
Beyond the exam, we offer related services to help you stay healthy, optimized, and ready for long hours on the road.
Preparing for Your DOT Medical Exam: Tips & Best Practices
How to Get Ready
Bring your most up-to-date medication list with dosages and prescriber info (helps expedite your exam). Concentra
If you wear glasses/contacts or use a hearing aid, bring them with you (vision/hearing are tested). CVS
Get your recent lab results if you have conditions like diabetes or kidney issues (e.g., A1C levels). Cleveland Clinic
Stay well-hydrated, rest adequately, and avoid large meals immediately before the exam for comfortable vitals.
Use the visit not just to “pass the test” but to ask questions about your health, posture, back and neck (especially relevant if you have long driving stretches).
After the Exam
If you receive a certificate for less than 24 months, set reminders for your next check-up.
Incorporate regular chiropractic care (if applicable) and ergonomic adjustments (seat position, lumbar support) to reduce fatigue and musculoskeletal strain.
Keep a copy of your medical examiner’s certificate (your DOT medical card) with your CDL records.
Common FAQs About DOT Medical Exams
Q1: How long is the DOT Medical Card valid?
In most cases, the DOT Medical Card (issued after your exam) is valid for up to 2 years. It may be valid for a shorter period if your examiner deems closer monitoring necessary. FMCSA+1
Q2: Can I get my DOT Medical Exam and Same Day Med Card at Evolve Chiropractic in Dripping Springs, TX?
Yes. At Evolve Chiropractic, we streamline the process so that you complete your exam and receive your certificate in one visit, when you meet the health requirements.
Q3: What happens if I fail the DOT Medical Exam?
If you don’t immediately qualify, you may receive a certificate for a shorter term (e.g., one year) or be asked to follow up after treatment/documentation. Honesty on your medical history improves your outcome. Lincoln Urgent Care
Q4: Does a DOT Medical Exam include my back/neck and musculoskeletal screening?
Yes. Part of the exam includes checking your spine, extremities, neurological coordination—important for long-hours drivers. Concentra
Q5: How much does a DOT Medical Exam cost?
Cost varies by provider and region; the focus at Evolve Chiropractic is on efficiency, clarity, and same-day service for drivers in Dripping Springs, TX and nearby areas - we have all our current prices posted transparently on our booking page.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Your health and your career matter — and the DOT Medical Exam in Dripping Springs, TX is a key milestone for staying compliant, safe, and active on the road. At Evolve Chiropractic, we combine expert screening (led by Dr. Jackson Humphrey) with compassionate care tailored to drivers and professionals. If you’re ready to schedule your CDL Medical Exam, Same Day Med Card, or simply want to discuss how the exam fits into your overall wellness plan, we’re here for you. Book your appointment today!
Written by Dr. Jackson Humphrey, DC, CCSP — Evolve Chiropractic, Dripping Springs, TX
