What Is Breath Alcohol Testing?
Breath alcohol testing measures a person's current alcohol concentration and helps determine whether alcohol impairment may be present. Unlike many drug tests, which can identify prior use, a breath alcohol test is designed to measure alcohol in the body at the time of testing.
For DOT-regulated programs, testing must be completed by a qualified Breath Alcohol Technician (BAT) using an approved evidential breath testing device (EBT) and DOT procedures. goMDnow supports DOT-regulated employers, CDL drivers, and non-DOT workplace programs nationwide.
When Breath Alcohol Testing Is Used
Employers commonly order breath alcohol testing for random testing, reasonable suspicion testing, post-accident testing, return-to-duty testing, follow-up testing, and non-DOT workplace alcohol policies.
For DOT-regulated employees, notification, testing, confirmation, and documentation must follow federal requirements. Accurate records help employers demonstrate compliance during audits and safety reviews.
DOT Alcohol Testing Requirements
DOT alcohol testing must be performed by a qualified Breath Alcohol Technician (BAT) using an approved evidential breath testing device (EBT). Results must follow a two-step confirmation process and be properly documented.
DOT breath alcohol concentration (BAC) thresholds:
0.02
Screening threshold
A result of 0.02 or above triggers a confirmation test. Driver must stop safety-sensitive functions until confirmation.
0.04
Violation threshold
A confirmed result of 0.04 or above is a DOT violation. Driver is immediately removed from safety-sensitive duty and must complete the RTD process.
Important: A result between 0.02 and 0.039 is not a DOT violation but requires the driver to be removed from safety-sensitive duty for at least 24 hours. The employer must not allow the driver to return until a subsequent test shows below 0.02.
Why Use goMDnow for Breath Alcohol Testing?
Qualified BAT technicians at certified collection sites nationwide
DOT-approved procedures and evidential breath testing devices
Fast scheduling - same-day appointments at most locations
Proper documentation and result handling for audit compliance
DOT & non-DOT programs supported under one platform
Online ordering available 24/7 - no phone call required
Secure results delivered with the documentation your program needs
Nationwide network with access to convenient testing locations
How Breath Alcohol Testing Works
1. Schedule the testOrder online and select the DOT or non-DOT reason for testing.
2. Visit the testing siteThe employee reports to a nearby location and completes testing with a qualified BAT.
3. Complete confirmationIf the screening result is 0.02 or higher, the BAT performs the required confirmation test.
4. Receive documentationResults are documented and delivered securely for employer records and compliance needs.
