DOT Drug Testing Services
Reliable, federally compliant drug and alcohol testing for commercial drivers.
If your business has commercial drivers or employees in safety-sensitive jobs, DOT drug testing is required by law. The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires strict drug and alcohol testing for all employees who perform safety sensitive duties. Whether you’re an owner-operator, fleet manager, or HR professional, knowing DOT drug test rules helps you stay compliant, protect your business, and keep the roads safe.
What Is a DOT Drug Test?
A DOT drug test is conducted by federal regulations outlined in 49 CFR Part 40. The DOT designed these rules to ensure that all employees in safety-sensitive positions remain free from drugs and alcohol while performing their duties. The Department of Transportation (DOT) oversees numerous agencies, but the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is responsible for administering drug and alcohol testing for commercial vehicles. If your drivers operate vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds, carry hazardous materials, or transport more than 16 passengers, your company must comply with DOT drug testing rules. A DOT drug test screens for five specific types of drugs. This is known as the DOT 5 panel drug test, and it’s the standard for all DOT-regulated testing.
What Drugs Are on a DOT Drug Test?
Many employers and drivers ask: What drugs are tested for in A DOT drug test? The DOT
5 panel drug test detects the following substances:
- Marijuana (THC)
- Cocaine
- Amphetamines (including methamphetamine and ecstasy)
- Opiates (heroin, codeine, morphine)
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
Testing positive for any of these drugs or refusing to give a urine sample can lead to job loss
For the employee and serious trouble for your company.
DOT Drug Testing Program Requirements
A compliant drug testing program follows detailed DOT regulations and includes:
Pre-employment drug test: Before anyone can perform safety-sensitive duties, they must pass a DOT drug test.
Random drug testing: Companies must randomly select employees for testing throughout the year.
Post-accident drug test: If a driver is involved in an accident that meets specific criteria, they must undergo a drug screen.
Reasonable suspicion testing: Supervisors must request a test if they observe signs of substance use, including drugs or alcohol.
All urine drug tests use a standardized chain of custody process to ensure accuracy. The employee provides a urine sample at a certified collection site, and a laboratory analyzes the sample. If the result is a confirmed positive, a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) reviews the case, contacts the employee, and reports the final determination.
DOT Drug Test Process: Step-by-Step
Understanding the drug testing process helps reduce confusion for employers and drivers alike. Here’s what happens during a DOT test: DOT tests are always observed by a trained collector, especially if the employee has a history of previous violations or the situation requires direct observation. DOT requirements do not permit alternative test methods, such as hair or saliva testing. Only urine samples meet DOT standards.
Why DOT Drug Testing Matters
DOT drug testing protects everyone on the road. Drug and alcohol testing prevent accidents, reduce company liability, and foster a safer work culture. A strong testing program also supports your business during audits and reviews. Failing to comply with DOT requirements puts your operating authority, reputation, and bottom line at risk. Companies must document every drug test and show proof of compliance with federal rules. Drivers who fail to meet drug test requirements face suspension, and companies risk heavy penalties.
Who Must Comply with DOT Drug Test Rules?
Any business that employs drivers of commercial motor vehicles or other DOT-regulated positions must follow DOT drug testing rules. This includes trucking companies, bus operators, construction businesses, utility providers, and other related entities. If your employees perform safety-sensitive duties—such as driving, loading hazardous materials, or maintaining vehicles—they must pass DOT drug screens. Even a single owner-operator must comply with all DOT drug and alcohol testing regulations. If you need assistance setting up your DOT drug testing program, our team is here to guide
you through the process.
Why Choose Our DOT Drug Testing Services?
We provide reliable, accurate, and fully compliant drug and alcohol testing services tailored for companies of every size. Our team handles everything, including random drug testing, pre-employment screens, result management, and audit support. With us, you never have to worry about missing a random selection, losing paperwork, or failing an audit. We help you stay organized, up-to-date, and stress-free, so you can focus on running your business.
FAQs About DOT Drug Tests
Q: What is a DOT drug test?
We provide reliable, accurate, and fully compliant drug and alcohol testing services tailored for companies of every size. Our team handles everything, including random drug testing, pre-employment screens, result management, and audit support. With us, you never have to worry about missing a random selection, losing paperwork, or failing an audit. We help you stay organized, up-to-date, and stress-free, so you can focus on running your business.
Q: What drugs are on a DOT drug test?
We provide reliable, accurate, and fully compliant drug and alcohol testing services tailored for companies of every size. Our team handles everything, including random drug testing, pre-employment screens, result management, and audit support. With us, you never have to worry about missing a random selection, losing paperwork, or failing an audit. We help you stay organized, up-to-date, and stress-free, so you can focus on running your business.
Q: Who reviews DOT test results?
We provide reliable, accurate, and fully compliant drug and alcohol testing services tailored for companies of every size. Our team handles everything, including random drug testing, pre-employment screens, result management, and audit support. With us, you never have to worry about missing a random selection, losing paperwork, or failing an audit. We help you stay organized, up-to-date, and stress-free, so you can focus on running your business.
Q: Are random drug tests required?
We provide reliable, accurate, and fully compliant drug and alcohol testing services tailored for companies of every size. Our team handles everything, including random drug testing, pre-employment screens, result management, and audit support. With us, you never have to worry about missing a random selection, losing paperwork, or failing an audit. We help you stay organized, up-to-date, and stress-free, so you can focus on running your business.
Q: What happens if an employee tests positive?
We provide reliable, accurate, and fully compliant drug and alcohol testing services tailored for companies of every size. Our team handles everything, including random drug testing, pre-employment screens, result management, and audit support. With us, you never have to worry about missing a random selection, losing paperwork, or failing an audit. We help you stay organized, up-to-date, and stress-free, so you can focus on running your business.
Get Started with DOT Drug Testing
Don’t wait for an audit or accident to find out you’re out of compliance. Get ahead by building a robust drug and alcohol testing program today. Our services ensure that your company meets all DOT requirements and remains prepared for any challenge.