Drug Screens and why do we do them......

DOT Drug Testing Requirements: What CDL Drivers and Fleet Managers Must KnowSafety in commercial transportation isn’t optional — it’s federally required.
One of the most important safety tools enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is mandatory DOT drug and alcohol testing.
If you operate commercial vehicles or manage drivers, understanding these requirements protects:

• Your CDL
  
• Your operating authority
  
• Your company’s reputation
  
• Public safety
  

Let’s break it down clearly.

Who Is Required to Take a DOT Drug Test?DOT drug testing applies to drivers performing safety-sensitive duties.
This includes:

• CDL holders operating vehicles 26,001 lbs GVWR or more
  
• Drivers hauling placarded hazardous materials
  
• Drivers transporting 16+ passengers
  
• Safety-sensitive employees regulated under federal DOT rules
  

Testing is governed under 49 CFR Part 40, which outlines federal procedures for collection, lab testing, and result verification.

When Are DOT Drug Tests Required?DOT drug testing happens at specific times — not randomly at an employer’s discretion.
1. Pre-EmploymentA driver must test negative before operating a commercial vehicle.
2. Random TestingDrivers are placed into a federally regulated random pool.
3. Post-AccidentRequired after certain crashes involving fatalities, citations, or tow-away vehicles.
4. Reasonable SuspicionBased on documented observations of impairment.
5. Return-to-DutyRequired after a failed test and completion of a SAP program.
6. Follow-Up TestingUnannounced testing for up to five years after returning to duty.

What Does a DOT Drug Test Screen For?DOT uses a standardized five-panel drug test.
Substances Tested:

• Marijuana (THC)
  
• Cocaine
  
• Amphetamines (including methamphetamine)
  
• Opiates (heroin, morphine, codeine)
  
• Phencyclidine (PCP)
  

Expanded Opioids Include:

• Oxycodone
  
• Hydrocodone
  
• Oxymorphone
  
• Hydromorphone
  

Even if marijuana is legal in California, it is still federally prohibited for CDL drivers.
DOT regulations follow federal law — not state law.

How Is DOT Drug Testing Performed?Currently, urine testing is the federally approved standard.
All specimens:

• Follow strict chain-of-custody procedures
  
• Are analyzed at certified laboratories
  
• Are reviewed by a Medical Review Officer (MRO)
  

Oral fluid testing is being introduced but urine testing remains the primary method.

What Happens If a Driver Fails?A verified positive result triggers immediate action.
Immediate RemovalThe driver must be removed from safety-sensitive duties immediately.
Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) EvaluationThe driver must complete a federally mandated evaluation and treatment plan.
Return-to-Duty TestThe driver must test negative before returning to work.
Follow-Up TestingMinimum six unannounced tests in 12 months (can extend up to five years).
Failure to follow proper procedures can expose carriers to serious penalties.

Why DOT Drug Testing Matters for Your BusinessDOT compliance protects:

• Your FMCSA authority
  
• Your CSA safety profile
  
• Your insurance rates
  
• Your contracts and reputation
  

One compliance mistake can lead to audits, fines, and operational disruption.
Proactive testing protects your business long-term.

DOT Drug Testing in Chico, CaliforniaIf you are a CDL driver or fleet operating in Chico or Northern California, staying compliant doesn’t have to be complicated.
Work With Professionals Who Understand DOT ComplianceAt 5 Star Health and Safety, we provide:

• DOT drug testing (all required categories)
  
• Random consortium management
  
• Return-to-duty coordination
  
• DOT physicals
  
• Compliance documentation support
  

Led by Dr. Kirk A. James, we help drivers and fleets stay audit-ready and operational.

Schedule Your DOT Drug Test TodaySame-week appointments available.
Walk-ins welcome for pre-employment testing.
📍 5 Star Health and Safety – Chico, CA
📞 530.321.0750
Call today to schedule your DOT drug test or enroll in our random testing consortium.
Protect your CDL. Protect your authority. Protect your livelihood.