If you are looking for a new career path, you may be looking at truck driving. There are many benefits to this job, as it often provides health benefits, on-the-job training, flexibility, and the ability to travel to new areas. You can also pursue different commercial driver's license (CDL) certifications. For instance, Class A CDL drivers may be able to handle flatbeds, tractor-trailers, and livestock carriers. While much of these jobs does involve sitting in the cab of your truck, there are also some physical requirements to consider; take a look. 

You Must Be Willing to Undergo a DOT Physical

Since larger vehicles have limited maneuverability, additional blind spots, and increased stopping time requirements, the Department of Transportation (DOT) does require drivers to be in good health so that they aren't a liability on the road.

The DOT physical can cover a few categories, such as:

• Limb impairment
• Musculoskeletal issues
• Neurological issues
• Vascular issues
• Eye issues
• Hearing issues
• Heart issues
• Lung issues

If you have pre-existing health conditions, this physical doesn't automatically rule you out from applying for CDL Class A jobs, but it does mean that you will have to follow your doctor's guidelines. For instance, drivers with diabetes may need to produce blood sugar logs during their physicals. Drivers with heart issues may need a letter from their cardiologist, and drivers with hearing or vision problems may need to produce evidence of hearing aids/and or eyeglasses.

You Must Be Able to Conduct Pre-Trip Inspections

Before you head out on the road, you will be required to check the mechanics of your vehicle to make sure that it is safe to drive. You may need to check your wheels, rims, batteries, suspension, air brakes, etc. When you do a pre-trip inspection, you may need to crouch or squat to reach certain areas of the vehicle. You may need to lean over the hood or apply grip strength to manipulate levels or check certain lines.

You May Need to Help with Loading and Unloading

Some CDL jobs may have a company policy that you aren't allowed to touch freight, especially if you are not covered by warehousing insurance. However, some jobs may require you to help with loading and unloading merchandise. This means that you should be able to manually lift heavy boxes with proper form. You might need to be physically able to safely move hand-truck, dollies, etc. If you are driving livestock during the trip, you need to be physically able to monitor and feed the animals as necessary during the trip, and you may need to take part in unloading them during your destination arrival.

These are just a few physical considerations to keep in mind when you are applying for Class A CDL jobs. Reach out to a shipping service in your area today to learn more.