DOT SAP Program in Wyoming: What Truck Drivers Need to Know (2026)

If you’re a CDL driver in Wyoming and either fail or refuse a DOT-mandated drug or alcohol test, you’ll be immediately taken off any safety-sensitive work and won’t be cleared to return until you complete the return-to-duty (RTD) process.

That process starts with an evaluation by a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

At American River Wellness, we assist commercial drivers throughout Wyoming, including Cheyenne, Casper, Gillette, Laramie, and surrounding areas, by providing fast, compliant guidance through every step of the DOT SAP program.

This guide outlines the full DOT SAP process, helping you understand exactly what’s required to get back behind the wheel safely and legally.

What is a DOT SAP Evaluation?

A DOT SAP evaluation is a mandatory requirement for any safety-sensitive employee covered by U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) rules who fails or refuses a drug or alcohol test.

This evaluation must be completed by a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), who will:

• Examine the details of your test violation
• Evaluate your history of substance use
• Create a tailored plan that could involve education, treatment, or both
• Oversee your participation and progress
• Determine when you’re fit to return to duty and set up your follow-up testing schedule

Your individualized recovery plan may include:

• Drug and alcohol education courses
• Individual or group therapy sessions
• Participation in peer support groups like AA or NA
• Inpatient treatment, if necessary
• A DOT-observed return-to-duty test
• Ongoing follow-up testing to confirm continued sobriety

The main purpose of this evaluation is to ensure that you’re safe, sober, and fully prepared to resume work in a safety-sensitive role without endangering yourself or others.

Who Must Complete the SAP Program in Wyoming?

Any employee in a DOT-regulated safety-sensitive role who violates drug or alcohol rules is required to complete the SAP process before they can return to duty.

In Wyoming, this applies to:

• CDL holders operating commercial vehicles
• Drivers hauling hazardous materials (HAZMAT)
• Bus drivers transporting 16 or more passengers
• Both full-time and part-time commercial drivers
• Government-employed CDL drivers at the city, state, or federal level

CDL drivers in Wyoming are subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing under several circumstances, including:

• Before starting a new job (pre-employment testing)
• Random testing during the course of employment
• Post-accident testing
• Situations where there’s a reasonable suspicion of substance use

If you fail or decline any of these tests, you’ll be removed from your safety-sensitive role and required to start the return-to-duty process, beginning with an evaluation from a DOT-qualified SAP.

Your test violation will also be reported to the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, where it will remain on record until the SAP process is completed.

DOT Return-to-Duty Process in Wyoming

If you fail or refuse a DOT-regulated drug or alcohol test in Wyoming, you’ll need to complete the full return-to-duty (RTD) process before you can get back to any safety-sensitive duties.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the process works:

1. Immediate Removal from Safety-Sensitive Duties

As soon as your test violation is confirmed, your employer is legally required to remove you from all safety-sensitive work right away.

This action is mandatory under DOT regulations.

2. Referral to a DOT-Qualified SAP

Your employer will provide you with a list of DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP).

Only SAPs with official DOT credentials can conduct your evaluation – unqualified therapists or counselors are not permitted.

3. Initial Evaluation with the SAP

You’ll schedule a session, either virtual or in-person, with a qualified SAP.

During this appointment, the SAP will:

• Review your work and substance use history
• Talk through the details of your violation
• Design a personalized recovery plan that may include treatment, education, or both

4. Completion of the Recommended Plan

You must fully complete every component of the SAP’s plan.

This might involve:

• Attending substance abuse education programs
• Participating in individual or group counseling
• Joining support groups like AA or NA
• Entering residential treatment if needed

The SAP will track your progress and confirm when all requirements are fulfilled.

5. Follow-Up SAP Assessment

Once your program is completed, you’ll meet again with your SAP.

If they’re satisfied with your compliance, they’ll issue a report stating you’re ready for return-to-duty testing.

6. Return-to-Duty Drug or Alcohol Test

Before returning to work, you’ll need to pass a DOT return-to-duty test, conducted under direct observation.

A negative result is mandatory. If alcohol was involved, your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) must be under 0.02%.

7. Employer Decision on Reinstatement

After reviewing your test results and the SAP’s report, your employer will decide whether to reinstate you.

However, completing the process doesn’t guarantee rehire.

8. Follow-Up Testing Program

If you’re brought back or hired by another DOT-regulated employer, you must stick to a follow-up testing plan created by your SAP.

This typically includes:

• At least six surprise drug or alcohol tests in the first 12 months
• Continued testing for up to five years
• Strict compliance with the full testing schedule

9. Continued Monitoring

Your employer is responsible for making sure you follow the testing plan.

If you fail or skip another test, you’ll be removed from duty again and must restart the SAP process from the beginning.

Important Laws and Regulations

Federal Laws and Regulations

Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act (MCSIA) of 1999

The Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 established the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to regulate safety standards for CDL drivers and commercial transportation companies nationwide.

This legislation also enforces strict penalties for certain offenses, even if they happen while you’re driving a personal vehicle.

According to Section 201(g), a CDL holder can be disqualified for:

• Driving any type of vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Possessing or using controlled substances
• Refusing a legally required chemical test
• Committing violations that result in license suspension or revocation

Penalty details include:

• First violation: One-year CDL disqualification
• Second violation: Lifetime CDL ban (with potential reinstatement after 10 years in some instances)
• Felony drug offense in a commercial vehicle: Permanent CDL disqualification with no chance of reinstatement
• Human trafficking in a CMV: Lifetime CDL ban without the option to reinstate

FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Testing Requirements

Under 49 CFR Part 382 § 382.301, CDL drivers are required to complete drug and alcohol testing in the following situations:

• Before starting a job (pre-employment testing)
• Randomly during employment
• After qualifying accidents
• If there’s reasonable suspicion based on observed behavior
• During the return-to-duty and follow-up testing phases following a violation

FMCSA Clearinghouse and CDL Suspension Rules

As outlined in the FMCSA’s 2021 final rule and 2023 guidance, any driver who fails or refuses a DOT drug or alcohol test, or receives a “prohibited” status in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, will have their CDL suspended immediately.

You won’t be allowed to return to duty until you finish the entire SAP return-to-duty process.

Violations stay in the Clearinghouse database for up to five years, or until you complete the required SAP steps, whichever happens first.

Employer Reporting Requirements

Under 49 CFR Part 382 § 382.705, all DOT-regulated employers must report test violations to the FMCSA Clearinghouse using the Login.gov platform.

This system allows other DOT employers to access your drug and alcohol testing history if you apply for a new safety-sensitive job.

When a SAP Evaluation is Required

According to 49 CFR Part 40 § 40.285, you are required to complete a SAP evaluation if any of the following occur:

• You fail a DOT drug or alcohol screening
• You’re found driving a commercial vehicle with a BAC of 0.04% or above
• You refuse or avoid a required test
• You provide an adulterated or substituted sample
• You break any DOT drug or alcohol policy

Final Steps Before Returning to Duty

Per 49 CFR Part 40 § 40.305, the following conditions must be met before you’re allowed back into a safety-sensitive position:

• You must pass a DOT return-to-duty test with a negative result
• You must fully complete any treatment or education required by your SAP
• If your violation involved alcohol, your BAC must be under 0.02%

Even once all federal requirements are satisfied, it’s up to your employer to decide whether to bring you back on board.

Wyoming State Laws

Lower BAC Limit for CDL Drivers

Wyoming enforces a stricter blood alcohol concentration (BAC) standard for commercial drivers than for non‑commercial motorists.

Under Wyo. Stat. § 31‑7‑305(a), a commercial driver operating a CMV is considered legally impaired at a BAC of 0.04% or higher.

For non‑commercial drivers, the legal BAC limit is 0.08%, under Wyo. Stat. § 31-5-233(b)(i).

Per Wyo. Stat. § 31-5-233(b)(iii), Wyoming also permits DUI charges when a driver is under the influence of any amount of alcohol while driving to the extent it impacts their ability to safely drive, even if BAC is below the statutory limit.

Additionally, under the state’s implied consent rule, which is found in Wyo. Stat. § 31-6-102(a)(i), any driver operating a vehicle on Wyoming’s public roads, including CDL holders, automatically agrees to chemical testing when requested by law enforcement following a stop in which the driver is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Refusing a chemical test following an officer’s request can lead to administrative license suspension, CDL disqualification, and other penalties.

CDL Disqualification for DUI and Major Offenses

Wyoming imposes significant CDL disqualification penalties for major violations under Wyo. Stat. § 31‑7‑305.

These penalties apply whether the offense occurs in a CMV or a personal vehicle.

Major offenses include:

• Operating a CMV with a BAC of 0.04% or more
• Driving any vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Operating a non-commercial vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or more
• Refusing a required drug or alcohol test
• Leaving the scene of an accident
• Using any vehicle (commercial or non-commercial) in the commission of a felony (other than drug or human trafficking offenses)
• Operating a CMV while the CDL is suspended, revoked, or canceled
• Driving while disqualified
• Negligent CMV operation resulting in a fatality
• Using a CMV for controlled substance offenses or human trafficking

Disqualification periods under Wyoming law include:

• First major offense: 1‑year CDL disqualification
• First major offense while hauling hazardous materials: 3‑year disqualification
• Second major offense: Lifetime disqualification, with potential reinstatement after 10 years in certain cases
• Drug‑related felonies or human trafficking in a CMV: Permanent lifetime disqualification for a first offense with no possibility of reinstatement

Disqualification for Serious Traffic Violations

Serious traffic violations can also result in CDL disqualification under Wyo. Stat. § 31‑7‑305(b), regardless of whether they occur in a CMV or a personal vehicle.

Under Wyo. Stat. § 31-7-102(a)(xli), serious traffic violations include:

• Speeding 15 mph or more over the posted limit
• Reckless or aggressive driving
• Improper or erratic lane changes
• Following another vehicle too closely
• Any moving violation contributing to a fatal crash
• Operating a CMV without obtaining a CDL or commercial learner’s permit (CLP)
• Operating a CMV without the proper CDL class or without proper endorsements
• Driving a CMV without carrying the CDL card
• Texting or using a handheld device while operating a CMV

Penalties for serious violations:

• Two violations within three years: Minimum 60‑day CDL disqualification
• Three or more within three years: Minimum 120‑day CDL disqualification

These penalties are separate from any criminal charges or fines that may also apply.

Railroad Crossing Violations & Out‑of‑Service Orders

Wyoming follows federal CDL disqualification standards for railroad crossing offenses and out‑of‑service (OOS) violations, incorporated through Wyo. Stat. § 31‑7‑305(h).

Railroad crossing violations include:

• Failing to slow or stop as required before a railroad crossing
• Ignoring railroad crossing warning signals
• Not obeying railroad crossing traffic control devices

Penalties:

• First offense: 60‑day disqualification
• Second offense within three years: 120‑day disqualification
• Third or subsequent offense within three years: 1‑year disqualification

Under Wyo. Stat. § 31‑7‑305(g), out‑of‑service order violations result in the following penalties:

• First offense: 180‑day to 1‑year disqualification
• Second offense within 10 years: 2‑ to 5‑year disqualification
• Third or subsequent offense within 10 years: 3‑ to 5‑year disqualification

Penalties increase if the driver was transporting hazardous materials or passengers at the time of the violation, as follows:

• First offense while hauling HAZMAT: 180 days up to 2 years disqualification
• Second offense while transporting HAZMAT or carrying passengers within 10 years: Three to five-year disqualification

How to Choose the Right SAP Program

Partnering with the right SAP provider can make a big difference in how quickly and smoothly you complete the return-to-duty process and get back on the road.

Here’s what you should expect:

1. Quick and Convenient Virtual Appointments

At American River Wellness, we provide same-day or next-day SAP evaluations online for drivers throughout Wyoming.

You can start your return-to-duty process right away – no need to travel or sit in waiting rooms.

2. Consistent Communication Throughout

We keep you and your employer updated at every step.

Our team works to keep the process clear and organized, with no surprises along the way.

3. Transparent Pricing with Payment Flexibility

Our SAP evaluations start at $450, and we offer installment plans beginning at $112 through Afterpay.

There are no hidden costs.

4. Comprehensive Support from Start to Finish

We’re with you every step of the way, from your initial evaluation to your final SAP clearance.

Need help finding educational classes, therapy, or support groups? We can connect you with the right resources.

5. Licensed, DOT-Qualified Evaluators

Our team includes credentialed professionals such as:

• Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP)
• Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)
• Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICADC)
• Intervention Specialist (IS)
• DOT Qualified Substance Abuse Professional (DOT SAP)

These qualifications ensure that your evaluation is fully DOT-compliant and handled by knowledgeable experts.

6. Ongoing Support After Completion

We keep your records on file for five years after your SAP program is completed.

If you need help with documentation, follow-up testing coordination, or employment support in the future, we’re just a call, text, or email away.

Get Back on the Road with American River Wellness

A failed or refused DOT drug or alcohol test doesn’t have to bring your trucking career to a stop.

The SAP process is the legal path to getting your CDL back, when completed properly, with the right guidance and support.

At American River Wellness, we assist Wyoming drivers in completing the return-to-duty process quickly, compliantly, and confidently.

With virtual SAP evaluations, DOT-qualified professionals, and step-by-step guidance, we make it easier to get back behind the wheel.

Call (833) 436-8727 today to book your SAP evaluation and take the first step toward reinstating your CDL.

DISCLAIMER: This information is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. It should not be interpreted as legal counsel or guidance.

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