What Happens if I Refuse a DOT Drug Test?

Federally-regulated employees are required to submit to alcohol and/or drug testing as mandated by the DOT. If you refuse a DOT drug test or alcohol test, you will not be able to perform your safety-sensitive duties because refusing a test is equal to failing. You can only return to work after seeing a qualified SAP and successfully completing the return-to-duty process.

What Refusing a Drug or Alcohol Test Means

Refusal to take an alcohol or drug test isn’t the answer. You can’t buy time because if you don’t appear for the test, it’s the same as failing it. You must comply in order to get back to your safety-sensitive duties.

Below are some examples of refusals:

  1. An employee refuses to take a test when they don’t stay on the testing site until the process is complete. They can not leave unless they are cleared to go.
  2. They fail to take a test if they don’t provide a urine specimen for the alcohol or drug test.
  3. Not providing a sufficient amount of urine may also be considered a refusal to take the test.
  4. Failure to take a requested additional follow-up drug or alcohol test is also a refusal.
  5. Not completing a medical evaluation for shy bladder condition as part of the process is also called a refusal.
  6. You must cooperate during the entire testing process or they can mark that as a refusal.
  7. Don’t wear any devices or prosthetics that can interfere during the testing process as that’s considered a refusal.

Return to Duty Process

All safety-sensitive employees who failed or refused to take the test will need to successfully complete the return-to-duty process to get back to their duties. You will need to see a DOT qualified Substance Abuse Professional for the evaluation and education and/or treatment recommendations. As the employee, it’s your responsibility to complete the process or you won’t be able to get back to your safety-sensitive duties. Once you receive your second evaluation, and your SAP confirms your compliance, you will be referred to submit to a return to duty drug and/or alcohol test.

Don’t Refuse a DOT Drug Test

If you fail or refuse a DOT drug test or alcohol test, your only option is to see a SAP. Your employer can provide you with a list of Substance Abuse Professionals but this can take time. When you connect with SAP Referral Services (SRS), we can get you scheduled quickly with a SAP near you. Contact us today to learn more about our services.