Redirect Counseling & Driver Improvement Services

Department of Transportation (DOT)

Substance Abuse Evaluations For CDL Truck Drivers

In 2001, the Department of Transportation adopted guidelines stating that if you test positive for drugs or alcohol in a urinalysis or breath analysis, you are required to work with a Substance Abuse Professional and follow a step by step process to ensure that you can return to work safely. Since that time, the Department Of Transportation regulations have become stricter and, effective January 1, 2004, you will have to be evaluated by a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

How The Process Works:

Evaluation- You meet with a SAP who conducts an evaluation. The evaluation process takes approximately 1 hour to complete.

Determination- The SAP determines if you need assistance with the alcohol misuse or illegal drug problem. The SAP must provide appropriate documentation to your company’s designated employer representative (DER) to the DOT.

Education or treatment- Our SAP will refer you to the appropriate education or treatment services based upon the needs identified in your evaluation. At a minimum, the SAP must recommend substance abuse education. Redirect Counseling Services can either be the educator/ treatment provider OR the SAP, but not serve both roles. If necessary, you will receive a referral to programs located in your area that can provide the services you are required to complete.

Return to duty evaluation- Our SAP will conduct return to duty evaluation to determine if you have complied with the recommendations for treatment or education that you were given when you were initially evaluated.

Follow-up testing- Our SAP will establish a follow-up testing regimen. You are required to complete at least six tests in the first year upon your return to safety sensitive duty on your job. Our SAP may also recommend a "continuing care" regimen (aftercare, meeting with your 12-Step sponsor, 12-Step meetings, etc.)