If you hold a commercial drivers license, you have a lot to handle on the road. CDL drivers are in charge of vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more, may have to tow trailers, and can even be handling hazardous materials like flammable gas. Due to the added responsibilities that a CDL brings, the U.S. Department of Transportation requires drivers to undergo annual drug and alcohol testing to fulfill DOT compliance. Find out what this entails and how to ensure you are meeting the requirements.

How a DOT Compliance Test Is Run

Technically, it is the responsibility of the CDL driver’s employer to implement drug and alcohol testing for their employees. Drivers must present clean results before they start work. Tests can be conducted at random intervals throughout the year and are always required if a serious accident occurs—for instance, one causing a fatality or requiring a tow-away.

A urine sample is used to check for drugs, while a breath test assesses blood alcohol level. If both exams are completed in a single session, alcohol testing is done first. The supervisor overseeing the specimen collection must send the samples to an approved laboratory that is certified under the National Laboratory Certification Program.

What Happens If You Fail

Drivers who register a blood alcohol level of more than 0.04 fail the alcohol test, while any evidence of drugs in the system means failing the drug test. If a driver fails either exam, they must be immediately removed from duty driving commercial motor vehicles. A “return-to-duty” process overseen by a DOT-qualified substance abuse professional then commences.

Note that alcohol and drug testing is mandatory. Refusing to participate will result in the driver being taken off commercial driving duty. Failing to show up for a check or not cooperating with any part of the process is likewise considered refusal.

US Compliance Consortium provides drug and alcohol exams in Phoenix, AZ. DOT compliance testing is among their specialty areas, and they are proud to report a 99% accuracy rate. You can expect results in three business days or less. Find out more about the company online, and if you have any questions, call (602) 765-2200.