Tag Archives: What is a DOT Drug Screen

Drug Testing Requirements for Truck Drivers

Drug Testing Drug testing is required for many positions today, including truck drivers. It’s important that employers know that their workers are not harming their bodies and putting the company at risk. So, if you’re interested in getting into this career, here are some things you should know about the drug testing and its requirements.

First, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or FMSCA, anybody operating a vehicle that requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is subject to these tests. So it doesn’t matter what you’re driving, if you have one of a CDL, you aren’t safe from taking one of these tests.

Your employer, or in the case of a truck driver, your carrier is allowed to test for the presence of alcohol or drugs prior to them hiring you or when they have even the slightest of suspicion that you may be operating a vehicle under the influence. Once hired, your carrier is allowed to test you only before, during or after driving; it can’t be out of the blue when you are at home. They are also allowed to test you in case there is an accident that happens that involves a fatality. When that happens, they have to test for alcohol within 8 hours of the accident and within 24 hours if they are testing for drugs.

Once your carrier obtains a sample from you, they will forward it to a laboratory certified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It will then be given a five-point screen that tests for the presence of alcohol or numerous different drugs. If your sample comes back positive for drugs or alcohol, you have to complete the Substance Abuse Professional evaluation, referral, education and treatment process outlined by FMCSA. Your carrier doesn’t have to administer any of that but they must make sure you complete it. Once all of that is done, you will be able to return to work.

Platinum Drivers is a CDL driver staffing and placement service providing drivers in different areas across the country. If you would like more information on our business, feel free to contact us today!

When Are Truck Drivers Subject to Drug Tests?

When Are Truck Drivers Subject to Drug Tests?

The trucking industry is very serious about being drug-free. Someone using illegal/harmful drugs shouldn’t be driving a big rig. Drug tests are given in several instances, in order to make sure truck drivers and others working in the business aren’t going to cause problems for themselves, the company, and/or the general public on the roads.… Continue Reading

What is a DOT Drug Screen?

In 1991, the United States Congress passed the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act. This demanded that Department of Transportation (DOT) agencies to routinely do drug and alcohol testing of workers in “safety-sensitive” jobs. Part 40 is a DOT regulation that specifies how drug and alcohol testing is done, and how employees who test positive are… Continue Reading