Miami DOT Physical Exams: A Complete Guide from Dr. Keren Gomez

By Dr. Keren Gomez | July 17, 2025

Dot Medical Exam

Staying compliant with FMCSA regulations isn’t just essential—it’s also your key to keeping Florida roads safe. For new CDL drivers, fleet managers, and South Florida commuters, the DOT medical exam is a vital milestone. That’s where Dr. Keren Gomez, an FMCSA-approved medical examiner with 11+ years of experience across seven South Florida locations, simplifies the process—from expert exams to same-day DOT card issuance and comprehensive chiropractic care.

What Is a DOT Medical Exam?

A DOT physical is a mandatory evaluation to determine if you meet the health standards to safely operate commercial vehicles. It includes:

  • Physical assessment: vital signs, cardiovascular health
  • Vision & hearing tests
  • Urinalysis to check kidney function and detect diabetes
  • If needed, EKG or sleep apnea evaluation

Required for drivers operating vehicles over 10,000 lb (CDL), transporting hazardous materials, or carrying 9+ passengers. Typically valid for two years, or shorter if certain health conditions are identified.

Meet Dr. Keren Gomez

  • Credentials: A Florida-licensed Chiropractic Physician and FMCSA-certified Medical Examiner, registered since 2007.
  • Locations: Seven convenient clinics across South Florida—Hollywood, Kendall, Miami Airport, Miami Lakes, North Miami, Pompano Beach, and West Palm Beach.
  • Languages & Availability: Fully bilingual (English/Spanish), with weekend slots, same-day DOT card printing, and transportation support for accident victims.
  • Holistic care: Beyond DOT exams, Dr. Gomez offers chiropractic injury rehab—ideal for drivers recovering from accidents.

What Changed on June 23, 2025?

On June 23, 2025, FMCSA launched the Medical Examiner’s Certification Integration (NRII) rule, which revolutionizes how DOT medical results are recorded:

  • Examiners must electronically submit exam results via the National Registry to your State Driver Licensing Agency (SDLA) by midnight the next day.
  • No more holding paper DOT cards—the SDLA and FMCSA directly communicate your status.
  • Included is a 15-day waiver (through October 12, 2025): you can still carry and present paper DOT cards if state systems are not fully transitioned.
  • The change speeds up driver verification, reduces compliance errors, and combats fraud.

Note: If Florida hasn’t integrated NRII yet, Dr. Gomez will still provide a paper Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) and guide you on submission.

Why Choose Dr. Gomez in Miami

  • Convenient access: Clinics in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties—perfect for all drivers.
  • Same-day certification: Many CDL applicants get their medical card the same day, easing tight schedules.
  • Multilingual support & weekend options reduce travel barriers.
  • Chiropractic care: Post-accident services and injury recovery support, ideal for long-haul drivers or those recovering from trauma.

Tips for a Smooth Exam

  1. Bring: Driver’s license, medical history, list of medications, and if applicable, sleep apnea or diabetic records.
  2. Prepare: Be rested, hydrated, and avoid heavy meals before the exam.
  3. Attest conditions: Controlled hypertension or diabetes may require a 1-year certificate if properly documented.
  4. Schedule early: To accommodate the digital system update and ensure your exam result is fully processed before your current card expires.

FAQs

1. What if I have diabetes or high blood pressure?
Controlled conditions are acceptable. You may receive a 1-year card instead of 2 year card, with proper documentation.

2. Do I still need a paper DOT card?
Only if your SDLA hasn’t fully adopted NRII or you’re within the 15-day transition period after June 23, 2025.

3. How long is the DOT card valid?
Generally valid for 2 years, though some health conditions may limit it to 1 year.

4. What if Florida’s not connected yet?
Dr. Gomez will issue a paper MEC and advise you to submit it directly to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

5. How fast can I complete the exam?
With Dr. Gomez, same-day DOT cards are common, perfect for drivers on tight schedules.

Schedule Today

Staying DOT-compliant has never been easier. With robust new FMCSA regulations in place and Dr. Keren Gomez’s trusted South Florida network:

  • No more paper hassles—DOT results are now securely sent electronically.
  • Same-day DOT card issuance is available across seven Miami-area clinics.
  • Holistic chiropractic care supports your long-term driver health.

Schedule your DOT medical exam in Miami today with Dr. Keren Gomez by calling (305) 761-6528 (Dade), (954) 510-5518 (Broward), or (561) 414-2401 (Palm Beach), or book online.

Posted in DOT Medical Card