How often must truck drivers take a medical examination to maintain DOT certification?

Truck drivers must undergo a medical examination every two years to maintain their DOT certification. This requirement is established to ensure that drivers remain in good health and capable of safely operating commercial motor vehicles. The medical exam covers various health aspects, including vision, hearing, and physical condition, assessing whether drivers can perform their duties without posing a risk to themselves or others on the road.

The two-year interval for medical examinations strikes a balance between maintaining adequate health oversight and not being excessively burdensome for drivers. Regular assessments help in identifying and managing any health conditions that could potentially impair driving abilities, thereby promoting safety in the transportation industry.

Shorter intervals, such as annual or quarterly exams, would be unnecessarily frequent for the majority of drivers who are typically in good health, while a longer interval like every five years would increase the risk of health issues emerging unnoticed that could endanger public safety.