The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires DOT physical tests to ensure public safety. This ensures that the commercial driver is able to tolerate the health effects of long periods of sitting while driving. It is mandatory to undergo a DOT physical in order to obtain a commercial driver's license. DOT physicals include the medical history, including prescription medications, surgeries, and substances you consume - tobacco, alcohol, etc. Additionally, the DOT physical includes a variety of body functions, such as blood pressure measurement, pulse measurement, your ability to hear whispers, a survey of spinal deformities, an examination of neurological reflux, and a physical exam to determine if you have swelling or breathing problems. The DOT physical also examines your lungs and heart, a hernia examination, and a urinalysis to determine if your kidneys are functioning properly. DOT physicals can be administered by medical doctors (MD), osteopathic doctors (DO), chiropractors (DC), physician assistants (PA), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). A complete physical examination is included in the DOT physical test. DOT physicals test your health for the purpose of determining whether you're in good enough shape to operate a commercial vehicle safely.