DOT Pre Employment Drug Test: What You Need to Know

The DOT pre employment drug test is regulated by the Department of Transportation. It was created to ensure those working in the transportation industry are deemed drug and alcohol-free before their employment. According to the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act, which was created in 1991, all DOT agencies must implement this testing of all safety-sensitive employees to maintain the safety of workers and the traveling public.

There are several times that DOT testing is necessary. The most common include:

  • Pre-employment: Before a person begins their job responsibilities.
  • Reasonable suspicion or cause: If a supervisor believes someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Return to duty testing: Necessary after a violation of the alcohol or drug rules.
  • Random testing: This has to be a random selection process.
  • Post-accident testing: Necessary if a person is involved an accident on the job.

DOT Pre Employment Drug Test: When Will it Occur?

If any of the following conditions apply to the driver then the DOT pre employment drug test must be performed.

  • The driver is brand new to the industry
  • It has been over 30 days since the driver participated in an alcohol or drug testing program
  • When starting a safety-sensitive position with a new employer

What Happens when a DOT Drug or Alcohol Test is Failed?

If a person fails the DOT pre employment testing then the DOT regulations require that the person is prohibited from doing any type of safety-sensitive job.

The requirements to regain the ability to perform safety-sensitive DOT functions is dependent on the return to duty process. First, they must make an appointment with a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) in their geographic region. Next, they must follow the treatment or education programs suggested by their SAP. Upon successfully completing the treatment recommended by the SAP, they will be able to complete a return to duty drug or alcohol test. If they pass the test they may be able to perform safety-sensitive duties again.

SAP Referral Services (SRS) understands that it is important to get enrolled in a SAP program quickly when an applicant fails a DOT pre employment drug or alcohol test. SRS’s FastTrack Enrollment Program helps those who fail a DOT-mandated drug or alcohol test find DOT SAP providers in their area. To learn more about FastTrack Enrollment click here.

Sources:
DOT Drug Testing 101
Electronic Code of Federal Regulations