Q1. Process and Payment for Split Specimen Test:  If a driver makes a timely request for a split-specimen test within 72 hours after being notified by the Medical Review Officer (MRO) of a positive DOT drug test, and the driver cannot cover the cost of the split-specimen test, will the split-specimen test proceed without payment?

A1. Yes, the employer must pay the cost of the split-specimen test so that the test proceeds in a timely manner as required by 49 CFR 40.173  Part 40 provides that an employer may seek reimbursement for full or partial costs of the split-specimen test through company policy or a collective bargaining agreement, but the regulations take no position on who ultimately pays the cost of the test.  See 49 CFR 40.171 (a) and  40.173 (b) (c).