Department Of Transportation (DOT) Testing

Department Of Transportation (DOT) Testing

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The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) require individuals holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL), as well as their employers, to comply with established drug and alcohol testing regulations. These regulations outline the testing process, how often tests must be conducted, and which substances are included.

 

Does this apply to you?

 

• Employers of CDL drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) on public roads

• CDL drivers operating CMVs on public roads

• Interstate motor carriers

• Intrastate motor carriers

• Federal, state, and local government agencies

• Civic organizations (e.g., disabled veteran transport, Scouts)

• Faith-based organizations

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What does a DOT drug test entail?

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DOT drug testing is not the same as standard workplace testing. While there are many methods available, the DOT only permits urine drug tests, which must follow a strict and detailed process—often making results take longer.

Key requirements:

• Testing must be done through an HHS-certified laboratory

• Rapid, instant, or on-site tests are not allowed

• Tests screen for marijuana, cocaine, phencyclidine (PCP), amphetamines/methamphetamines, and opiates

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For DOT-regulated companies or individuals in safety-sensitive positions, Express Test PA provides all required DOT drug and alcohol testing, along with services for FMCSA, FTA, FRA, PHMSA, USCG, and FAA.

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The Department of Transportation sets specific testing rules based on the type of transportation work you do. For instance, commercial drivers and air traffic controllers may have different requirements. To learn the rules that apply to your job, visit Transportation.gov, and consider signing up for their newsletter to stay updated on any changes.​

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