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Failing a drug test can literally slam the brakes on any professional driver’s career.
However, there is a clear path to getting your commercial driver’s license back, and at American River Wellness, we’ve helped countless CDL drivers across all 50 states successfully return to the road.
This guide will walk you through the return-to-duty process step by step, helping you understand what to expect and how to meet all requirements.
Understanding Your Situation
When you fail a DOT drug test, it’s important to understand the full scope of the situation for your recovery path. Here’s what that entails:
Immediate Impact
- Your CDL privileges are automatically suspended
- You must cease all safety-sensitive functions immediately
- Your violation is recorded in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
- Your employer must remove you from driving duties
- You’ll have to complete a DOT SAP evaluation and return-to-duty process before you can return to work
The Path Forward
The return-to-duty (RTD) process is mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
While this process is strict, it’s designed to help you return to work safely and maintain your career long-term.
You must complete the necessary steps of the return-to-duty process before you can return to driving for your employer, another company, or as an owner-operator.
7 Essential Steps to Get Back Your CDL License
1. Connect with a DOT-Qualified SAP
The first step in your recovery is to schedule an evaluation with a DOT-qualified SAP.
Under the law, your employer must give you a list of qualified SAPs in your area, but it is common that many do not, especially under pre-employment testing.
However, your best option is to call our experts here at American River Wellness to schedule with a DOT-qualified SAP: (833) 436-8727
The DOT-qualified SAP will put together a mandated return to duty process after completing a comprehensive evaluation.
They will ask you questions about your substance use history, your violation, and your situation and have you take one or more assessment tools to determine your specific treatment needs and create a customized plan.
Your plan will include the SAP’s treatment and education recommendations tailored to your needs, which might include any of the following:
- Drug and alcohol education
- Drug and alcohol counseling
- Outpatient drug and alcohol treatment
- Group counseling
- Inpatient/residential treatment (if necessary)
You must complete the recommendations given to you by your DOT SAP.
Note: The DOT-qualified SAP cannot change or alter the mandates of the RTD process set forth by DOT. They can only recommend individual education or treatment and testing schedules per the employee they are supporting.
2. Complete the Required Treatment Program
There are a few key steps that must be completed before you return to your safety-centric function:
Education and Prevention Training
Complete substance use education programs to understand the effects and develop coping strategies:
- Learn about how substances affect judgment, reaction time, and overall performance
- Study the specific health and safety risks associated with your occupation
- Develop personalized strategies to manage stress and triggers without substances
- Practice healthy coping mechanisms and lifestyle changes that support sobriety
- Build a support network of family, friends, and professionals
Professional Counseling and Support
Participate in counseling sessions to address underlying contributing factors:
- Work with trained professionals to identify root causes of substance use
- Address personal or work-related stressors that may have contributed
- Learn effective communication and conflict-resolution skills
- Develop strategies for managing anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns
- Create an ongoing support plan for maintaining long-term recovery
Customized Rehabilitation Program if Needed
Engage in rehabilitation services tailored to your specific situation:
- May include individual therapy, group counseling, intensive outpatient, or inpatient treatment programs
- Participate in recommended support groups or recovery meetings
- Complete any required medical evaluations or treatments
- Work with specialists who understand your industry’s specific challenges
- Develop a structured daily routine that supports your recovery goals
Program Compliance and Documentation
- Follow all SAP recommendations precisely throughout the treatment process
- Attend all scheduled appointments and sessions without exception
- Submit to required drug/alcohol screening as scheduled
- Maintain detailed documentation of your participation and progress
- Communicate proactively with your SAP about any challenges or concerns
Your DOT SAP will monitor your progress and compliance during treatment. It’s important to fully participate and follow all recommendations.
3. Schedule and Pass the Follow-Up SAP Evaluation
After completing your education or treatment program, you must undergo a follow-up evaluation with your SAP.
Bring all documentation to verify the successful completion of your treatment.
If the SAP determines you’ve met all requirements, they will issue a written confirmation and authorize you to proceed to the Return-to-Duty drug test.
They will communicate their findings with your employer.
4. Pass the Return-to-Duty Drug Test
You must test negative for any prohibited substances, and the results will be recorded in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
A negative result is a key milestone toward regaining your CDL.
5. Begin Follow-Up Testing Program
Your employer can decide whether to return you to your job or not.
If they do, they will set up a follow-up testing program you must follow.
If your employer chooses not to place you back in your driving job, a subsequent employer must establish a follow-up testing program for you.
Once cleared, you’ll begin a follow-up testing program, which includes:
- Minimum of 6 Unannounced Tests: These tests occur in the first 12 months and can continue for up to 5 years.
- Directly Observed Tests: All follow-up tests are supervised to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Failing or missing any follow-up test will restart the process, so maintain vigilance.
6. Reinstate Your CDL and Return to Work
To resume driving, apply for reinstatement of your CDL through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
You may need to pay reinstatement fees and provide documentation of your compliance with the RTD process.
Be prepared to explain your completed program to potential employers, as your Clearinghouse record will reflect the violation for five years.
7. Maintain Compliance to Stay on the Road
To sustain your career, adhere to all DOT requirements and complete any remaining follow-up tests.
Stay connected with your SAP, keep detailed records, and consider continuing support programs to maintain your progress.
Get Back on the Road with American River Wellness
If you’ve failed or refused a drug or alcohol test, completing a DOT SAP evaluation is the first step to returning to work.
At American River Wellness, our experienced DOT-qualified SAPs provide compassionate, professional support to guide you through the process and help you get back behind the wheel.
Don’t wait—schedule your appointment today and let us help you move forward: (833) 436-8727
DISCLAIMER: This information is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. It should not be interpreted as legal counsel or guidance.
FAQ
A DOT drug test screens for the presence of five drug categories: marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines/methamphetamines, and phencyclidine (PCP).
Return to duty and follow-up tests are conducted using a urine sample, which is collected under direct observation to ensure compliance and accuracy.
DOT drug tests are required for all employees performing safety-sensitive functions in industries regulated by the Department of Transportation.
This includes CDL drivers, airline personnel, railroad workers, pipeline operators, and others in roles where public safety is a concern.
The timeline for regaining your CDL depends on how quickly you complete the Return-to-Duty (RTD) process, which includes an initial evaluation, a treatment program, a follow-up evaluation, and a negative Return-to-Duty test.
While the process is not standardized, your dedication to completing each step without delays will determine how soon you can return to driving.
Once you return to driving, you’ll also have to complete a follow-up testing program
Some employers may cover SAP program costs through employee assistance programs, but this is not common.
At American River Wellness, we strive to make SAP programs more accessible with pricing starting at $112 and flexible payment options available.
The record of the testing violation is viewable on the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse for 5 years from the date of violation, provided that the return to duty process and all follow-up testing have been completed.
If this process is not complete it will be viewable until all requirements are met.
Employers can access this information during pre-employment screenings or other checks within that timeframe.
The basic Return-to-Duty process is federally mandated and applies uniformly across all states.
However, states may have additional requirements, such as specific reinstatement procedures or fees for restoring your CDL.
For accurate information, contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
Each type of DOT drug test failure has specific implications and procedures:
Pre-employment Drug Test Failure
– Occurs before starting a new driving position
– Results reported to the Clearinghouse
– May affect current job offers and future employment
– Still requires full SAP program completion
Random Drug Test Failure
– Occurs during routine, unannounced testing
– Immediate removal from safety-sensitive functions
– A current employer must terminate or reassign you
– Full reporting to the Clearinghouse
Post-accident Test Failure
– Occurs after a qualifying accident
– The most serious type of violation
– May face additional legal consequences
– Could affect insurance coverage
– Possible civil liability implications
Reasonable Suspicion Test Failure
– Triggered by observed signs of substance use
– Requires documented supervisor observations
– May indicate ongoing substance use issues
Return-to-duty Test Failure
– Occurs during the reinstatement process
– Restarts the entire return-to-duty program
– May require a modified / extended treatment plan
Follow-up Test Failure
– Occurs during the monitoring period
– Results in immediate suspension
– Restarts return-to-duty process
– May extend follow-up testing period
All violations share these common factors:
– Recorded in the FMCSA Clearinghouse
– Require completion of SAP program
– Minimum 12-month monitoring period
– Direct observation for future testing
– Impact on future employment opportunities
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