DOT SAP for CDL Drivers
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) driver needs to be attentive and safe at all times while operating their vehicle. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 4,455 fatal crashes occurred in 2017 involving a large truck or bus. After a fatal crash, a CDL driver must undergo testing for drug and alcohol use. Should a driver fail or refuse a test, they are mandated to complete a DOT SAP return-to-duty program. Please read on for more information.
Why Would a CDL Driver Need a DOT SAP Program?
Due to the large size of the vehicle, it can be significantly easier to crash a commercial motor vehicle. Unfortunately, this puts the driver, other passengers, and other vehicles in danger. In order to reduce some of this danger, the Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all safety-sensitive employees to adhere to the DOT drug and alcohol testing regulations.
In addition to drug and alcohol testing after certain types of accidents, the DOT requires random testing. So, some employees may never be tested, while others are tested multiple times during a year. If an employee violates the drug and alcohol policy, they will be required to complete a DOT SAP return-to-duty program. Refusing to participate in testing is considered the same as violating the test and will require the employee to complete a DOT SAP program.
What is a DOT SAP Return-to-Duty Program?
After violating the drug and alcohol policy, a DOT mandated safety-sensitive employee is immediately removed from safety-sensitive duties and required to successfully complete a DOT SAP program. A DOT SAP program serves to help the CDL driver get the help they need. Additionally, the public will be kept safe by keeping the CDL driver off the roads until they have successfully complied with the SAPs recommendations for treatment or education.
Substance Abuse Professionals (SAPs) are qualified professionals skilled in diagnosing and treating alcohol and substance-related disorders. A DOT SAP has the training for DOT drug and alcohol policies and understands the return-to-duty process for employees.
A SAP evaluates drivers and makes individualized recommendations for treatment, education, follow-up testing, and/or aftercare. After successful completion of the DOT SAP process, the SAP will complete a report and prescribe a series of follow-up tests that can range from one to five years for the employee.
SRS FastTrack Enrollment Program
To help you find a qualified SAP in your area, discover SAP Referral Services (SRS). We have helped over 20,000 employees in their return-to-duty process since 2003. We understand that a safety-sensitive DOT mandated employee required to complete a SAP program has their livelihood on the line. The longer it takes to complete the program, the longer they aren’t earning a paycheck. SRS offers a FastTrack Enrollment program that only takes two-steps to begin. The program connects you with a DOT-qualified SAP, usually within 72 business hours. Enroll today!
SAP Referral Services (SRS) is the leading facilitator for mandated substance abuse evaluations. SRS maintains an extensive network of qualified providers in more than 3,000 locations nationwide for testing violations that originate from any of the DOT’s modes including FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, USCG and PHMSA, or a company’s internal drug and alcohol testing policy.