Why is obtaining a DOT physical certification beneficial?
Although you may question whether going through all these steps to become certified is worth it, most healthcare providers find that obtaining a DOT physical certification is highly beneficial to their practice. A significant benefit is the diversification and expansion of your current practice, with the certification being open to any licensed healthcare provider authorized by the state to perform physical examinations. This means that a broader range of healthcare professionals are able to perform DOT physicals, including nurse practitioners and other advanced practice registered nurses.
Who can perform DOT physicals?
DOT physical examinations can only be performed by FMCSA-certified medical examiners who are recognized by the NRCME. In order to remain certified, these medical professionals are required to ensure they are compliant with DOT regulations by completing refresher training courses every five years and passing assessments every 10 years. If you are a licensed medical examiner, such as a doctor of medicine or osteopathy, physician assistant, advanced practice nurse, or chiropractor, you can obtain a DOT physical certification that enables you to perform DOT physical exams.
Steps to get certified to perform DOT physicals
Step 1: Register on the National Registry website
Step 2: Complete an accredited NRCME training course
Step 3: Register for the National Registry Medical Examiner certification test
To schedule a time to take the DOT physical certification exam, you can register on the FMCSA website. Here, you will have to use your unique identity number that you received from the NRCME, in addition to your username and password, to find a testing organization in your area and schedule a date and time to take the exam.