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U.S. Department of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation Icon United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation

Regulations

Legacy ID
506

When does testing occur and what tests are required?

DOT drug and alcohol tests include: Pre-employment – An employer must receive a negative drug test result before permitting a CDL driver to operate a CMV. (§382.301). Post-accident – Drug and alcohol tests may be required after crashes according to the following chart (§382.303):

What substances are tested?

Which substances are tested? DOT drug tests require laboratory testing (49 CFR Part 40 Subpart F) for the following five classes of drugs: Marijuana, Cocaine, Opiates – opium and codeine derivatives, Amphetamines and methamphetamines, Phencyclidine – PCP

Who is Tested?

Who is Tested? Generally, all CDL drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles subject to the CDL requirements on public roads in the U.S. are performing safety-sensitive functions and are subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing (§382.103). This includes all full-time, part-time, intermittent,...

Overview of Drug and Alcohol Rules

The United States Congress recognized the need for a drug and alcohol free transportation industry, and in 1991 passed the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act, requiring DOT agencies to implement drug and alcohol testing of safety-sensitive transportation employees. 49 CFR Part 40,...

Drug & Alcohol Testing Program

Who's Impacted?

  • Anyone employing CDL drivers to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) on public roads
  • CDL drivers who operate CMVs on public roads
  • Interstate motor carriers
  • Intrastate motor carriers
  • Federal, State, and local governments
  • Civic organizations (disabled veteran transport, boy/girl scouts, etc.)
  • Faith-based organizations

Resources for Drivers*