Overview
Applies To: All employers, owner-operators, and drivers enrolled in the goMDnow DOT Random Testing Consortium.
goMDnow operates a DOT-compliant Random Drug & Alcohol Testing Consortium in accordance with 49 CFR Part 382 and Part 40. This policy explains how random testing selections are made, how notifications occur, required response times, and what happens if a driver does not complete testing.
This policy is designed to protect employers, owner-operators, and drivers while ensuring full compliance during FMCSA audits, investigations, and compliance reviews.
1. Who Is Subject to Random Testing
All DOT-regulated drivers enrolled in the goMDnow consortium are subject to random drug and alcohol testing, including:
- CDL drivers
- Owner-operators
- Fleet drivers
- Drivers performing safety-sensitive functions
Enrollment in the consortium constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance of this policy.
2. How Random Selections Are Made
- Drivers are selected using a computer-based, scientifically valid random selection system.
- Selections are conducted throughout the year to meet or exceed FMCSA annual testing rates.
- Selections are made on a rolling basis, making testing unpredictable.
- Each driver has an equal chance of being selected during each selection event.
3. Notification Process
- Employers or owner-operators are notified immediately upon selection.
- Notification may be sent by email, SMS, phone, or portal message.
- Employers are required to notify selected drivers immediately upon receipt.
4. Testing Timeframe
Once notified, drivers must:
- Report for testing immediately, or
- Complete testing no later than the next business day.
Delays for convenience are not permitted.
5. Allowable Extensions
Short extensions may be approved only for documented safety or operational reasons, including:
- Driver is off-duty or in mandatory rest under hours-of-service rules
- Driver is on an active route with no nearby collection site
- Collection site is closed or unavailable
- Medical emergency or illness
- Severe weather or natural disaster
Extensions are documented and reviewed for compliance.
6. Refusal to Test
Failure to report for testing within the required timeframe without a valid documented reason constitutes a refusal to test under 49 CFR 40.191.
Consequences may include:
- Immediate removal from safety-sensitive duties
- Requirement to complete the Return-to-Duty process
- Reporting to the FMCSA Clearinghouse when required
7. Owner-Operator Specific Rules
Owner-operators are notified directly and must complete testing immediately or by the next business day. Limited extensions may be approved for distance or safety reasons and must be documented.
If an owner-operator fails to report without valid reason:
- The refusal is documented
- Services are suspended
- The Return-to-Duty process is required before resuming safety-sensitive duties
8. Employer Responsibilities
Employers must:
- Notify drivers immediately upon receipt of random selection
- Ensure drivers proceed to testing without delay
- Maintain compliance records
- Remove drivers from safety-sensitive duties for refusals
Failure to follow these requirements may result in non-compliance findings during audits.
9. Recordkeeping & Audit Support
goMDnow maintains records of:
- Selection date and time
- Notification date and time
- Test completion date and time
- Extensions and justifications
Records are available during FMCSA audits or investigations.
10. Questions or Assistance
If you have questions or need immediate help with a random selection:
Phone: 980-655-4455
Email: customerservice@gomdnow.com
Compliance Statement
goMDnow administers random testing as a Consortium/Third-Party Administrator (C/TPA). Employers and drivers remain legally responsible for compliance with DOT and FMCSA regulations.