Safety is the first priority of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). To ensure that transportation providers employ workers who are 100% drug and alcohol free, the DOT developed regulations for a Alcohol and Drug Testing Program and created the position of Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) to assist those who are identified as having a problem with drugs and/or alcohol.

The six (6) Operating Administrations under DOT required to follow testing regulations under 49 CRF Part 40 include:

• FMCSA - Federal Motor Carrier Administration

• FRA - Federal Railroad Administration

• FAA - Federal Aviation Administration

• FTA - Federal Transit Administration

• USCG - U.S. Coast Guard

• PHMSA - Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

The SAP process consists of the following:

• Failed Drug Test - violated a Federal DOT drug or alcohol regulation as a result of a positive urine test for drugs, refused a test, did not provide a specimen in a timely manner, or failed to take a test, then you must be re­moved from all safety-sensitive duties and contact a SAP for an evaluation.

• The SAP will help you satisfy the DOT return-to-work requirements by completing your initial evaluation, referring you to necessary treatment providers or education programs, completing your final evaluation, and providing all required documentation to your employer. All these steps must be completed before you are allowed to return to a safety sensitive job.

• Upon completion of the SAP process, the SAP will update the FMCSA Clearinghouse to show that you are now "Return-to-Duty Eligible." 

• SAP Evaluation services are not covered by insurance. Please check with your EAP, HR department or Union to see if the SAP evaluation services are covered. Otherwise, the client must pay out-of-pocket.

• Completing the SAP Evaluation process does not guarantee your return to work, or with your previous or current employer.