Do drivers have to have a copy of the physical with them?

No, drivers are not required to have a copy of the long DOT physical examination form with them. A copy of the long physical form is not required to be in the driver’s qualification file either. The original of the physical form is retained at the medical examiner’s office. This is found in the instructions to the medical examiner in 391.43.

The driver is only responsible for carrying a legible copy of the medical examiner’s certificate on their person, per 391.41(a).