Failed DOT Drug Test Recorded in the FMCSA Clearinghouse

The FMCSA Clearinghouse is an online database containing information regarding the status of commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and commercial learner’s permits (CLP). Entities permitted to access the database include employers, State law enforcement, State Driver’s Licensing Agencies and drivers themselves. The database provides information about alcohol and drug program violations such as a failed DOT drug test, drug and/or alcohol test refusals.

Commercial Drivers Must Register

New rules mandate all commercial drivers register with the FMCSA Clearinghouse. FMCSA mandated employers are required to conduct queries on all newly hired drivers as well as queries on existing commercial drivers. Additionally, the FMCSA reports on alcohol and drug violations attributed to registered commercial drivers. Failing to register with the FMCSA Clearinghouse may result in loss of employment.

CDL and CLP holders should be aware that violations before January 6, 2020 are not included in the Clearinghouse. Violations occurring before January 6, 2020 while a return-to-duty program was in process will not be entered into the FMSCA database.

If you are a commercial driver and need to register, visit this page to begin the compliance process.

Who Reports a Failed DOT Drug Test to the Clearinghouse?

MRO’s and Employers are the only entities who are permitted to report violations. They may also conduct queries about potential employees to ensure new hires are not prohibited from operating a commercial vehicle. Unless a driver with a failed DOT drug test has completed the return-to-duty process, they will be flagged as in violation of DOT regulations. Employers are mandated to conduct queries before hiring drivers and at least once a year for current employees.

How to Access Your Clearinghouse Record

After a CDL holder has registered with the FMCSA Clearinghouse, they can access their records free of charge. Information available to registered drivers include status of return-to-duty and violations of drug and/or alcohol regulations. Completion of RTD and follow-up testing information are also available to commercial drivers registered with the Clearinghouse.

Have You Failed a DOT Drug Test? Get Back to Work QUICKLY with FastTrack Enrollment

SAP Referral Services offers commercial drivers the ability to schedule a meeting with a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional in their area in as fast as 72 business hours. If you are a commercial driver who has refused or failed a drug/alcohol test, discover our FastTrack Enrollment program and start the process of getting back on the road.

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.