Officially a Comcast RISE Core Program award recipient! Comcast RISE = Representation + Investment + Strength + Empowerment. Click here for video.
Drug testing is part of most job interview processes, but it’s particularly important for the trucking industry. Not only are we responsible for keeping the public safe by maintaining a drug- and alcohol-free workforce, the Department of Transportation regulates the drug testing requirements for our prospective and current employees. Read on to learn more about CDL drug testing requirements.
A CDL drug test, or more commonly known as a DOT drug test, is a drug test that is regulated by the Department of Transportation. Beginning in 1991, the government recognized the inherent need to monitor the transportation industry for drugs and alcohol. The Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act was passed, implementing drug and alcohol testing requirements for safety-sensitive positions.
DOT drug tests are required for flight crews, aircraft dispatchers, U.S. Coast Guard crew members, train workers, and more, including truck drivers. Specifically, a CDL drug test is required for “commercial driver’s license holders who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs), vehicles that carry 16 passengers or more (including the driver), or vehicles that transport hazardous materials and are required to display a DOT placard,”
according to Concentra, one of the nation’s premier drug testing labs.
Though much more extensive drug screening panels are available, a DOT drug test is a 5-panel drug test. Per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, a DOT drug test screens for:
Marijuana includes THC, and amphetamines includes methamphetamines and MDMA. The opiates category includes things like codeine, heroin, morphine, hydrocodone, oxycodone, hydromorphone, and oxymorphone.
A DOT drug test is part of your pre-employment screening program (link to Your Guide to DOT Background Check Requirements for Drivers), but for added security, companies are required to conduct a drug test at other points during employment too:
DOT drug tests come down to one basic benefit: safety. A drug- and alcohol-free workforce is best for any job, but safety-sensitive positions bear a particularly strong responsibility to the community. It’s understandably important that our drivers be free of drug and alcohol influence while responsible for massive machinery. A DOT drug testing program keeps your employee safe, the public safe, and your brand reputation safe.
Are you just getting started in the trucking industry and have questions before moving forward? Gold Star’s mentoring and coaching programs are just the fit for you.
Got more questions or clarifications? Send us a message today.
Gold Star Logistics Group, LLC