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DOT-SAP Program

Your Path Back to Work

Failed a DOT drug or alcohol test? We know this is a challenging time, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. 

At American River Wellness, we’ve helped thousands of truck drivers just like you get back on the road after completing our fast and easy DOT SAP program

Quick Facts About Our Program

Same or next-day appointments available

Most return to work within 7 days

Starting at $112 with flexible payment options

Virtual appointments for your convenience

DOT-qualified professionals with 7+ years of experience

What is a DOT SAP Program Near Me?

After a failed or refused drug/alcohol test, the Department of Transportation (DOT) requires you to complete a SAP evaluation before returning to work. This isn’t meant to be a punishment – it’s a path back to your career that helps ensure both your success and public safety.

Here’s what you need to know:

– It’s required any time you fail or refuse a DOT drug/alcohol test

– You must complete the evaluation before returning to safety-sensitive work

– The process is designed to help you return to work safely and maintain your career

– Your evaluation is confidential and conducted by certified professionals who understand the challenges you’re facing

Our DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professionals will guide you through every step:

  • Conduct your evaluation with care and respect
  • Create a realistic return-to-work plan that fits your situation
  • Support you through any required treatment or education
  • Help determine when you’re ready to return to work
  • Provide ongoing support throughout the entire process

Meet Your SAP

Graham Sargent

Drug & Alcohol Counselor with 13+ Years of Experience.

Certified: CEAP, CADC-III-ICADC, IS, SAP

American River Wellness specializes in the return to duty process. Our goal is to demystify the process while educating employees and employers how to return to safety sensitive duty. Our commitment to public safety is top priority. A testing violation does not mean the end of your career. Let us provide you with the best support for your safe and timely return to the driver’s seat.

We have Spanish, Punjabi/Hindi, Russian/Uzbek and Turkish speaking translators available to assist if needed. We understand the importance of culturally appropriate assessment, education, and counseling.

Call today for more information.

Graham

Our 6-Step DOT SAP Program Process

1

Scheduling Your Evaluation

Getting started is easy – contact us by phone, email, or text to schedule your initial appointment. We offer same-day or next-day appointments to help you return to work faster, plus convenient virtual options to fit your schedule.

2

Your SAP Evaluation

During your evaluation, we’ll have an in-depth conversation about your substance use history and the circumstances that led to your violation. Your SAP will use professional assessment tools to understand your situation and determine the best path forward.

3

Treatment/
Education Plan

Your SAP will develop a personalized plan based on your evaluation. This might include drug and alcohol education, counseling, outpatient treatment, or in some cases, inpatient care. We’ll clearly explain how to complete each step to comply with DOT requirements and monitor your progress throughout.

4

Follow-Up Evaluation

Once you’ve completed your recommended program, you’ll meet with your SAP again. We’ll review your participation and progress to determine if you’re ready to safely return to work.

5

Return-to-Duty Recommendation

After successfully completing all requirements, your SAP will prepare a report confirming your eligibility to return to work. We’ll send this to your employer, who can then arrange your return-to-duty drug and alcohol test. Upon passing this test, you can resume your safety-sensitive duties.

6

Follow-Up Testing

Your employer will conduct unannounced follow-up drug and alcohol tests for at least one year. You’ll need to maintain negative results to keep your position. Throughout this period, your American River Wellness SAP remains available by phone, email, or text to provide support and guidance.



Why Choose American River Wellness?

Experience & Expertise

- DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional
- 7+ years conducting SAP evaluations
- Comprehensive knowledge of DOT regulations
- Service for all DOT-regulated industries

Support & Communication

- Clear guidance throughout the process
- Regular updates to you and your employer
- Available by phone, email, or text
- Ongoing support during follow-up testing

Affordable Options

- Programs starting at $112
- Flexible payment plans available
- Transparent pricing
- No hidden fees

Convenience & Accessibility

- Services available in all 50 states
- Virtual evaluation options
- Same or next-day appointments
- Flexible scheduling

Ready to Get Started?

Don’t let a failed test end your career. Contact American River Wellness today to begin your return-to-duty process.

FAQs

Most clients complete their program within 7 days, though timing can vary based on individual circumstances and requirements.

No, you cannot operate a commercial vehicle until you complete the program and pass your return-to-duty test.

Without completing the SAP program, you won’t be legally cleared to return to safety-sensitive duties. Your violation will remain in the FMCSA’s Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse.

No. Be wary of any company claiming to offer free DOT SAP programs, as these claims are false.

Not all substance abuse counselors are qualified to provide DOT SAP services. You need a DOT-qualified SAP who has completed specialized training, passed exams, and demonstrated thorough knowledge of DOT regulations, like our professionals at American River Wellness. 

The Return-to-Duty process is required when you violate DOT drug and alcohol rules through:

  • A positive drug test
  • An alcohol test with BAC of 0.04% or higher
  • Test refusal (including diluted or adulterated samples)

After any of these violations, you’ll be removed from your safety-sensitive position until you complete these steps:

  1. Initial DOT SAP evaluation
  2. Recommended treatment and/or education
  3. Follow-up evaluation
  4. SAP clearance for return-to-duty testing
  5. Passing a return-to-duty drug and alcohol test
  6. Follow-up testing for at least 12 months

Important: If you fail either the return-to-duty test or any follow-up or other test, you’ll need to restart the entire process.

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