If you are currently a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) truck driver and have failed a “drug screen,” the next steps for getting back on the road can be daunting and complex. The government entity known as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established regulations to protect the public through the random testing of drivers for illegal drug and alcohol use. For a more in-depth look at the regulations please review 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 382 and 40.
A CDL Truck Driver Return to Duty process begins with someone who has failed a drug test must comply with the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and FMCSA regulations. A designated SAP makes the determination regarding treatment in all cases. First, the driver must undergo evaluation by an SAP who reviews the driver’s history; then the SAP will recommend a treatment program if applicable. After the SAP evaluation, the CDL Truck Driver Return to Duty process must abide by the SAP’s recommendation(s) for substance abuse assistance or evaluation before he or she can be considered eligible to return to his or her position. The SAP program requires that the driver attend a minimum of two one-hour sessions for alcohol misuse or 10, one-hour sessions for drug misuse, all of which are taken in approved drug rehab centers. After the successful completion of these sessions, the CDL Truck Driver Return to Duty process requires that the driver must take and successfully pass a Return-to-Duty drug or alcohol test.
If the CDL Truck Driver Return to Duty process meets the requirements established by the SAP, he/she can then proceed with the return-to-duty process. This process should begin with a review of the FMCSA regulations and the employer’s drug and alcohol policy. The truck driver needs to understand his/her rights as it relates to returning to work with an employer.
When approaching an employer for a return to duty, the truck driver should request an application for employment or a request to be reinstated. This application should include a description of all requirements (e.g. SAP evaluation, drug/alcohol testing, etc.) that must be completed before the employee qualifies for reinstatement. Upon completing the requirements, the employer must provide the driver with a release to have their CDL license re-instated.
The SAP recommended treatment modality may include things such as:
- Individual and/or group counseling
- Education on substance use and abuse
- Self-help meetings such as Al-Anon or Twelve Step programs
- Community-based treatment programs, which may include life skills
- Education
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Relapse prevention techniques
In the end, it is important that the truck driver remains compliant and follows the program and recommendations provided by the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) to return to duty with the FMCSA and his or her employer. Once the required steps and treatment program have been completed, the CDL Truck Driver Return to Duty process will continue with the driver having to undergo drug/alcohol screenings and will be granted a clear/eligible driving record.
Considering a CDL Truck Driver Return to Duty process at this time? Then www.sapevaluation.org is an invaluable resource for your needs. 1-800-683-7745 will get you in touch with someone to set up your CDL Truck Driver Return to Duty process as soon as possible!
Information Source:
SAMHSA | Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration | U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
