Return to Duty Process; Resuming Driving Duties

After the violation of drugs and alcohol, the substance abuser is not allowed to resume work until the Return to Duty process is completed under the guidelines of the Department of Transportation. According to DOT guidelines, this testing is prescribed by the substance abuse professional (SAP) for a minimum of 6 direct observed tests in 12 months but can be extended an additional four years depending upon the need.

What happens when DOT drug and alcohol testing is positive?

When a DOT-covered employee is tested positive for DOT drug and alcohol testing, the employee is immediately removed from a safety-sensitive position and is directed to qualified SAP (Substance Abuser Professional) so that the employee may able to join the duty after completing DOT Return-to-Duty Process under the supervision of SAP.

What is a SAP?

SAP (substance abuse professional) is a person who evaluates employees for violations of the DOT drug and alcohol program and makes recommendations for teaching, management, follow-up testing, and rehabilitation. SAP assesses drivers after explaining their circumstances and recommends the type of recovery they need. For your CDL to be put back into good standup and documented in the clearinghouse, drivers must complete the return-to-duty process according to the guidelines of SAP.

Why Return-to-Duty process is necessary?

After the violation of DOT drug and alcohol testing the truck driver may not be able to rejoin duty for at least 5 years until or unless the Return-to-Duty process is completed.

What steps are included in the RTD process?

• An instant removal of positively tested employees from security-sensitive areas.
• Finding a competent DOT SAP and completing an initial SAP assessment.
• Completion of SAP-recommended instructive or treatment program.
• Fulfilling a second SAP assessment.
• If the SAP report is good, a complete return to work observation drug test is considered.

What is the purpose of the Return-to-duty drug test?

The main purpose of the DOT RTD process is to put truck drivers back onto the road who have tested positive for drug or alcohol prohibition, or who have refused a mandatory drug and/or alcohol test.

Steps of FMCSA Return to duty process

The Return to Duty process FMCSA after a failed drug test typically involves several steps, including:

1. Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) Evaluation

Substance Abuse Professional assessment must provide:

• A complete clinical assessment of your drug or alcohol-related setback.
• Useful programs and approvals must be finished before returning to any practical driving and safety-sensitive duties.
• A written report straight to your Designated Employer Representative (DER) affirming your post-assessment education/treatment plan references.
2. SAP-designated therapeutic and educational programs

If the SAP determines that treatment is necessary, you may be required to participate in a drug or alcohol treatment program. This can include individual counseling, group therapy, and rehabilitation.

3. SAP Records

For resuming CDL driving after a drug or alcohol contamination, the employer must guarantee that the employee has successfully followed the all-inclusive RTD process. SAP tracks your advancement on the online FMCSA Clearinghouse.

4. Follow-up SAP assessment

This in-person evaluation will regulate your suitability to take the return-to-work test and return to commercial driving safely. Your SAP will also provide your DER with a written report briefly mentioning the conclusion of your SAP program.

5. Follow-up drug and alcohol testing

Any employer who employs you within the prohibition timeline must complete your SAP-specified follow-up testing plan. For owner-operators, RTD testing and scheduled follow-up testing must be completed by the elected consortium third-party administration C/TPA.

6. Return to Duty

Once you have completed the Return to Duty Drug Test, you will be able to return to your job. However, you may be subject to additional drug testing and monitoring to ensure that you remain drug-free.

What is the estimated cost of a DOT SAP Program?

The cost of an SAP program can vary from person to person. One of the reasons for the unexpected cost a driver spends is the duration of the SAP program which differs from person to person as it can last for years depending upon the Sap’s recommendations for the relevant driver.

Furthermore, you must have to pay for definite exercises throughout the process, including:

• Initial test fee
• Education Program Fees
• DOT return to duty test
• Several other follow-up tests to be performed throughout the process

Certified DOT SAP services

Tested positive for a drug test? Let us help you get back on the road.

goMDnow provides qualified DOT SAP networks all over the US. We as a C/TPA carefully link employees with a DOT SAP nearer to them so they can follow the RTD process at ease and pace. We value our clients and provide an all-in-one platform providing them with convenient solutions to their problems.

Sign up today for a complete Return to Duty process or Call us at 980-202-1466.