DOT DRUG TESTING

Ensuring The Safety Of The Transportation System

The Department of Transportation (DOT) imposes specific criteria for drug testing, particularly affecting professions governed by DOT regulations, such as trucking and commercial vehicle operators. DOT drug testing procedures are conducted for various purposes, including random screenings, when an employer suspects an employee of being under the influence, as part of a DOT physical examination, following an accident, and as a component of a return-to-duty assessment, among other circumstances.

CALL NOW

01 What is a DOT Drug Test?

A DOT drug test differs from regular drug tests in several ways. Firstly, while various methods exist for drug testing, the DOT mandates urine drug testing exclusively. Additionally, the DOT requires a meticulous testing procedure, which often results in longer processing times for results. Moreover, DOT drug testing is conducted exclusively in laboratories certified by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Rapid, instant, or point-of-contact testing methods are not permitted by the DOT. Furthermore, DOT drug tests screen for specific substances, including marijuana, cocaine, phencyclidine, amphetamines and methamphetamine, and opiates.

02 Who Falls Under DOT Drug Testing?

The DOT drug testing program applies to various jobs, including:

- Commercial vehicle drivers
- Locomotive engineers, dispatchers, and signalmen
- Flight crew members and air traffic controllers

Please note that this list may not cover all positions, and some jobs may have extra requirements. For a complete list, please visit the Department of Transportation's website.

03 Reasons For Testing

The Department of Transportation (DOT) has specific drug testing rules depending on the type of transportation job. For instance, air traffic controllers might not have the same testing rules as truck drivers. To know the rules for your job, check www.transportation.gov You can also subscribe to their newsletter to get updates about any rule changes.

CALL NOW