DOT Alcohol and Drug Program: Protect Your Operation and Comply with the Law

Does your company operate commercial motor vehicles or employ CDL-licensed drivers in the United States?If so, you are legally required to comply with the Department of Transportation (DOT) Alcohol and Drug Program, established under Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 40.

What Is the DOT Alcohol and Drug Program?

It is a federal law designed to protect public safety by preventing the use of alcohol and drugs by employees who perform safety-sensitive functions in ground, air, or maritime transportation.

This includes truck drivers, bus drivers, train operators, vessel crews, and pilots.

Compliance with this law requires mandatory testing and the implementation of a clear policy regulating substance use within the workplace.

Is Your Company Required to Comply?

Yes, if your company meets any of the following criteria:

• Employs drivers with a CDL license

• Operates commercial vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds

• Transports 16 or more passengers, including the driver

  
  

This applies to both intrastate and interstate operations.

Even if you are an owner-operator with a single truck, you are required to be part of a testing consortium, since self-supervision is not allowed.

⚠️ Important: Many small or local companies are fined because they mistakenly believe they are not subject to this regulation. We strongly recommend consulting with a DOT compliance expert.

What Does Having an Alcohol and Drug Program Involve?

✅ Companies must have a program enrollment certificate, which must be renewed annually.

✅ Companies must maintain a written alcohol and drug policy that complies with federal law and the specific regulations established by the DOT and FMCSA.

✅ Employees must undergo required testing based on their role and type of transportation performed. These tests may include pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing.

✅ Laboratories must be certified by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and follow established sample analysis protocols.

✅ Medical Review Officers (MROs) must be licensed physicians with specific training to interpret and verify drug test results.

✅ Sample collectors must be properly trained to collect, label, seal, and ship samples to the laboratory.

Failure to comply with the DOT Alcohol and Drug Program may result in significant fines, suspension of operating authority, and license revocation. Drivers may also be disqualified and required to complete treatment or retraining before returning to work.

At Trucking Services & Logistic, we provide comprehensive guidance to implement and manage this program, ensuring full compliance with federal regulations.

📱 Contact us today!