Starting a new career as a commercial driver opens a world of opportunities, but it also comes with essential responsibilities, particularly regarding safety and compliance. One area that can cause some apprehension for new drivers is drug testing. It’s crucial to understand the ins and outs of these tests, from when they are required to what the testing process entails, and most importantly, how a failed drug test can impact your CDL and your livelihood.
This guide aims to demystify drug testing for commercial drivers, providing clarity and helping you confidently navigate this critical aspect of the job.
When are Drivers Tested for Drugs?
Drivers can expect a drug test:
- As part of a job application process
- After an accident with specific conditions
- Randomly, as determined by your employer
- When returning to work after a previous failed drug test
Additionally, employers can test you on the spot with “reasonable suspicion.” In other words, you could be tested if you appear intoxicated or get adverse driving reports to the company tip hotline.
After an accident, a driver is drug tested in three situations:
- If there was a fatality, regardless of whether police ticketed the driver
- Serious injuries occurred, and the driver was cited by law enforcement
- Property was damaged to the extent that the vehicles involved required towing, and the driver was ticketed
Also read: Understanding CDL Restrictions: What They Are and What They Mean
Types of CDL Drug Testing
There are two primary methods of drug testing in the trucking industry:
- Urine: The most common type of test, this method analyzes compounds in urine.
- Hair: Less common, this test can detect drug metabolites over a more extended period.
Even though DOT approved saliva-based swab tests in 2023, the regulation states that two labs must be federally certified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct CDL drug testing. As of writing, HHS has not approved any labs for this purpose. Even if this goes through, urine testing will remain the most common type of testing for the immediate future.
CDL-approved drug tests are required to search for traces of five substances:
- Cannabis
- Opiates
- Cocaine
- Amphetamines and methamphetamines
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
Note that drug tests can also detect high levels of alcohol for up to a day. More than 0.04% blood alcohol fails a drug test.
Also read: Types of Distracted Driving and How Truck Drivers Can Avoid Them
What Happens After a Failed Drug Test?
Failing a test can have serious consequences for drivers. Many trucking companies have a zero-tolerance policy, so you will likely lose your job. After failed drug testing, your CDL will be suspended until you complete a return-to-work program through DOT.
Additionally, a positive test may make it much harder to secure employment in the future, as it puts a black mark on your driving record.
Refusing to take a drug test counts as failing a drug test to DOT.
What about false positives or inconclusive results?
Although they are rare, false positives do happen. If you suspect your CDL drug testing results are due to a false positive, the good news is you can submit an appeal to the DOT Medical Review Officers (MRO). the first step is to identify a potential cause (such as medication) and collect all relevant documentation. This might look like providing proof of a prescription or contacting your physician to request a written explanation of the medication you take and that it will not affect your ability to operate a vehicle safely. The MRO is responsible for reviewing and verifying all appeals.
An inconclusive test result is likely due a diluted sample or a laboratory error. In this case, you will be asked to take another test immediately.
What you should know about the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) Program
The SAP driver program is mandated for all employees who violate the Department of Transportation’s drug and alcohol rules. Participants in the SAP program receive a clinical assessment (to include recommendations for education or treatment), a follow-up evaluation, and a return-to-duty test. The program’s goal is to support and prepare employees to return to their roles after a violation occurs.
Weed and Truck Drivers
Can you smoke weed and drive a truck?
The short answer: No.
Despite the decriminalization of cannabis in many states, marijuana remains federally illegal. That means that even if your state has legalized recreational marijuana, you still fail a drug test if you test positive (regardless of the state you happen to be in at the time). Also, DOT does not make exceptions for medical usage: no doctor’s note, no medical card, no exceptions.
Drivers should also be cautious about using CBD products. Even though CBD, a non-intoxicating form of weed, is federally legal, it still contains trace amounts of THC (the intoxicating compound in cannabis). Even though CBD is federally required to contain less than 0.03% of THC, the testing quality for CBD companies varies state to state, and you can inadvertently end up with more THC in your system and potentially fail a CDL drug test.
Also read: Truck Driver Safety: Essential Tips to Prevent Accidents and Injuries
The Consequences of Faking a CDL Drug Test
DOT has implemented steps to detect fake urine, such as temperature-sensitive strips. Pouring cold or lukewarm urine substitute into one of these tests immediately raises red flags. Also, fake urine is now illegal in many states. Please keep in mind that urine sourced from animals is easily detectable.
If you get caught faking a drug test, it counts as failing a drug test. Additionally, it goes on your driving record, and you will have to go through the same DOT return-to-work program and counseling. In some states, it is also considered a misdemeanor, meaning you could be fined or jailed. For example, in Pennsylvania, the penalty for faking a drug test could result in a fine of $2,500 and up to a year in prison. Declining a drug test is considered an automatic failure.
FAQ
How long does a drug test take to get results?
Negative tests generally take between 24 and 48 hours to get results, while positive tests may take as long as five days. The results will be sent directly to your employer, and failed tests will be reported to the FCMSA Clearinghouse database.
What’s the difference between a DOT drug test and other drug tests?
Other drug screenings that you may take from other employers may test for fewer substances. DOT drug tests are required to use a five-substance panel.
What is the actual test like?
Your employer should provide more details for the test, but in general, you can expect the following from a CDL drug test:
- You must sign paperwork in advance.
- You must show a photo ID.
- Urine tests:
- You will need to fill two collection jars.
- You will not be able to bring personal items such as jackets, purses, or anything that could hold fake or substitute urine.
- DOT tests are not observed, but a proctor will examine the sample for tampering at the time of collection.
- Hair/follicle tests:
- A collector will cut a small hair sample from the crown of the head.
- If you are bald, the collector may cut a small sample of body hair.
- The samples are sealed and sent to a lab.
Navigating DOT Requirements
Understanding CDL drug testing is vital for a successful career in commercial driving. If you’re ready to start your journey with a company that prioritizes safety and supports its drivers, consider Pace Drivers.
Visit our website today to learn more about our opportunities and how we can help you achieve your career goals.
