The trucking industry plays a crucial role in keeping our economy moving, with over 70% of all freight being transported by trucks. However, with this important responsibility comes strict regulations and requirements, including the requirement for truck drivers to pass a return to duty drug test before getting back on the road.

This test is designed to ensure the safety of not only the driver but also the general public. With the rise in drug and alcohol use among truck drivers, passing this drug testing and alcohol testing process has become a significant challenge for many.

Nevertheless, it is a necessary step in getting back on the road and resuming your trucking career.

In this article, we will explore the return to duty drug test, what it entails, and offer helpful tips and advice on how to pass it successfully.

So, if you are a truck driver looking to get back on the road after a failed drug test, or simply want to learn more about the entire process, read on to discover all you need to know about passing the return to duty drug test and getting back on the road.

QUICK TIP:
Do you want to focus more on your daily operations? It is convenient and practical to be part of a Consortium/Third-Party Administrators (C/TPAs) like Labworks USA to manage all, or part, of an employer's DOT drug and alcohol testing program and other DOT or FMCSA compliance needs. THIS WILL YOU A LOT OF TIME AND RESOURCES that you can redirect on any unprecedented additional expenses. We perform tasks as agreed to by the employer to assist in implementing the drug and alcohol testing program and to help keep the employer compliant with the DOT/FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Testing rules and regulations. We as a DOT Consortium can help you.
____

Valuable Lessons

All actions result in outcomes, irrespective of their magnitude, and these outcomes can be regarded as valuable lessons that offer the possibility of redemption. The opportunity for redemption, commonly known as a second chance, holds immense significance.

However, such opportunities are not bestowed liberally; rather, they necessitate considerable time and effort to rebuild trust. The process of undergoing a DOT return to duty drug test serves as a second chance for individuals who have previously violated the Department of Transportation's drug regulations and alcohol regulations, providing them with the chance to resume their work on the road.

What is the Return to Duty Drug Test?

Compliance with the regulations set forth by the FMCSA or DOT is crucial for both CDL drivers and employers. These guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Failure to adhere to these federal regulations can have serious consequences, resulting in penalties and rigorous screening processes.

To prioritize the well-being of others, any employee performing safety-sensitive tasks must be promptly removed from their position. Depending on the employer's policies, an employee may be terminated immediately upon receiving a positive drug test result from a medical review officer. This is done to mitigate any potential liabilities.

As of April 2021, the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)has reported 846 incidents of drug abuse. Out of the commercial truck drivers who have completed the return to duties process in a timely manner, only approximately 16.3% have been granted permission to resume work.

The return to duty drug test is typically administered following a positive test result, refusal to take a test, or drug and alcohol violation company policies within the employing company. However, this test is not exclusively conducted in response to violations; employees who have taken a prolonged leave of absence may also be required to undergo this testing.

It is important to note that the return to duty drug test differs from the pre-employment drug test. The former is conducted following a violation and subsequent participation in a recovery program, while the latter is administered prior to employment without the need for supervision.

Overall, adhering to the regulations set by the FMCSA or DOT is essential for CDL drivers and employers to ensure the safety and well-being of themselves and others. Non-compliance can lead to severe consequences, and the return to duty drug test plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe working environment.

Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)

To fulfill the requirements for returning to duty, an employee must undergo an initial evaluation or clinical evaluation conducted by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). A SAP is a highly qualified individual with proper credentials, entrusted with the responsibility of administering resource programs.

Their expertise lies in diagnosing and treating drug and alcohol-related disorders.

Based on the assessment, the SAP evaluations may prescribe further treatment plan if deemed necessary. Consequently, the employee's eligibility to resume duty hinges upon the results of the evaluation and the guidance provided by the SAP.

Furthermore, the SAP will assess whether the employee has cooperated with their recommended plans. Failure to comply will result in the SAP notifying the designated employer representative.

Education and Treatment Program

As part of the reinstatement process after a period of substance abuse, individuals are required to adhere to an education and treatment program recommended by the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

This crucial step aims to assist individuals in overcoming their dependency on substances by providing them with educational materials and communicating the associated risks and hazards of alcohol misuse, prescription drug abuse, and illegal drug use.

Education can be pursued through various avenues such as specialized courses, community lectures, or participation in self-help groups. Treatment options may range from inpatient care to outpatient services and even aftercare programs.

Upon successful completion of the treatment program, the substance abuse professional will submit a compliance report to your employer or potential employer. Subsequently, you will be directed to undergo a return-to-duty test.

To pass this test, the results must come back negative. Any positive result will be considered a new violation, necessitating a restart of the return-to-duty process. Consequently, you will be required to undergo another assessment and receive a new treatment recommendation from the SAP.

Furthermore, if the substance abuse professional determines that you have not cooperated fully throughout the process, a non-compliance report will be sent to your employer.

Quick Tip: Here's a list of DOT Consortium services we offer at Labworks USA with respective rates that can be your reference to have better expense projections.

Return to Duty Test Follow-Up’s

When a driver receives a negative result on their return-to-duty test and returns to work, it is important to note that they are not yet finished with the return-to-duty process. Instead, they are required by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to undergo multiple follow-up evaluations and DOT drug tests.

To ensure compliance, the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) must schedule at least six follow-up testing plan over a 12-month period. These tests must be conducted under direct observation to prevent any tampering with the samples.

It is worth mentioning that the SAP may continue to require tests even after the first year of the driver's return to work. Consequently, this process can extend for a significant period of time, and it is crucial to retain documentation for up to five years, including the negative results of the return-to-duty follow-up tests.

Moving forward, it becomes the employer's responsibility to ensure that the employee adheres to the SAP's plan. However, the previous employer cannot impose additional testing on the employee independently.

All follow-up tests will be conducted without prior notice or planning. Moreover, it is important to remember that these follow-up tests cannot be substituted for any other type of testing.

For instance, if the employee is selected for a random test by the consortium from a pool of other commercial driver's license (CDL) drivers, it cannot be considered as a follow-up test at the same time.

In Conclusion

The return to duty drug test is a crucial step for truck drivers looking to get back on the road. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this post, you can increase your chances of passing the test and resuming your career as a professional truck driver.

Remember to stay focused, prepare ahead of time, and seek support if needed. With determination and a commitment to safe driving, you can successfully pass the return to duty drug test and continue your journey as a responsible and trusted member of the trucking industry.

If you want to stay updated with a wide range of trends, actionable insights, and innovative solutions in the trucking, freight, and logistics industry, stay connected to us.

Moreover, are you looking for a company to help you to stay DOT and FMCSA compliant? We at Labworks USA can support you.

_____

If you are looking for more information about drug and alcohol testing as a truck driver, visit LabWorks USA. Our DOT Consortium's friendly team will be more than happy to discuss any concerns you may have and work with you to ensure you are always fully compliant specially with random DOT drug and alcohol testing pre-employment testing. Moreover, if you need help with FMCSA Clearinghouse registration, we can further support you.