Hearing Test for a Department of Transportation (DOT) Physical Exam

Hearing loss is one of the most common physical impairments in the nation, and adequate hearing is essential to pass a DOT physical. Here at Johnson Chiropractic and DOT Center in Sparks, NV, we offer clients an official DOT physical exam, which includes a hearing test. We’ll discuss what you can expect during your visit, so you can get on the road as a truck driver with a CDL license.

Hearing Requirements for the DOT Physical

Drivers operating large commercial vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds must pass a DOT physical exam every two years. This ensures drivers are in a state of health, allowing them to perform their duties safely.

A hearing test is part of the exam, and drivers must pass this part of the exam to receive a new medical card. To get a passing score, you’ll need the ability to hear a whisper from at least 5 feet away. The exam can be taken with or without a hearing aid.

Options If You Fail the Basic DOT Hearing Test

Should you fail the basic whisper test, our Sparks, NV, chiropractor will offer you an audiometry exam. Then, depending on the state of your hearing, you may be referred to a hearing specialist to discuss obtaining a hearing correction device. In most cases, you’ll only fail the DOT physical for your CDL medical certificate if you are deaf or cannot pass the whisper test, even with hearing aids.

What to Know about the Audiometer Test

There are three possible tests you can take using an audiometer.

• Pure Tone Testing - Truck driver candidates will wear a headset attached to an audiometer. The machine emits tones set to various volumes and specific frequencies in one ear at a time. When a sound is heard, you’ll give the examiner a signal, which allows them to document your level of hearing.
• Immittance Audiometry - A probe is inserted into the ear that pumps air when tones are activated. This alters pressure in the ear, and a microphone monitors how well sounds are heard under different strains.
• Speech Audiometry - Those examined will listen to and repeat words spoken at various volumes through a headset.

Get Your Department of Transportation Approved Hearing Test

Our Johnson Chiropractic and DOT Center chiropractor is authorized to perform physical exams for aspiring truck drivers. Whether you’re just getting licensed or need to renew your current one. Call us at 775-557-8140 or online to schedule an appointment.