Step of the DISA Return to Duty process

Truck driving is a difficult job, and Drivers must always be prepared for random drug screenings. Unfortunately, a positive outcome on a drug screening can have quite serious implications, including the loss of your job. If you fail a drug screen as a DISA Truck Driver, being informed about the Return to Duty process is key.

When a driver fails a drug screen as a DISA truck driver, they will receive a letter from a Licensed Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). The letter will explain that the driver must complete a Return to Duty process– a three-step program that will help the driver recover from their addiction and make sure they are able to return to work without the risk of relapse. The three steps of the Return to Duty process are a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluation, a recommended education/treatment program, and finally a successful follow-up drug screening.

The first step of the DISA Return to Duty process is to complete an SAP evaluation. In this evaluation, an SAP (usually a physician, psychologist, substance abuse counselor, or other certified professional with expertise in physical/medical and substance abuse) will evaluate a driver’s substance abuse history and make a recommendation for further treatment, if needed. During the evaluation, the SAP will ask questions about the driver’s use of alcohol or drugs, past and present medical and mental health issues, lifestyle issues, and more. The SAP is also in charge of making a recommendation for a treatment program, should one be necessary. In this assessment, the SAP may suggest an outpatient rehab program, an individual counseling program, or a residential treatment program—depending on the severity of the driver’s substance use disorder or the number of times the driver has failed a drug screening.

DISA Return to Duty Process

The second step of the DISA Return to Duty process is to complete the recommended education/treatment program. This could be an outpatient rehab group, an individual counseling program, or a residential treatment program. Depending on the apparent severity of the substance abuse disorder, outpatient and/or residential treatment may be recommended to ensure safe and effective recovery. Outpatient rehab groups are often used to provide support, structure, and ongoing accountability to drivers who want to stay connected to their community while in recovery. Individual counseling and sessions are also available for those who require more individualized attention and guidance. Residential treatment, meanwhile, is available for those whose addiction or relapse history is more severe. Residential treatment could involve close medical monitoring in an intensive care unit, counseling, and group therapy sessions, attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) if needed.

The final step of the DISA Return to Duty process is a successful follow-up drug screening. For this test to occur, the driver must enroll in and successfully complete the recommended education/treatment program. Once the program is completed, the driver must pass a drug screening that conforms to the standards set forth in the USDOT (United States Department of Transportation) regulations (49 CFR Part 382). Only after passing the drug screening can the driver then be cleared to return to work as a DISA Truck Driver.

It’s important to remember that completion of the DISA Return to Duty process does not guarantee employment; however, a driver who completes the process promptly stands a greater chance of being considered for future employment. Additionally, being informed about the process and the different treatment modalities available can help a driver find the right program and make more informed decisions about their recovery.

Considering a DISA 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 DISA 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

About the Author

Jacques Khorozian,

Ph.D., LPC, NBCC, MAC, SAP, CCS

Jacques Khorozian, Ph.D., LPC, MAC, SAP, CCS, is an experienced behavioral health professional with over 30 years of work in the criminal justice system, specializing in mental health and substance use disorder treatment. He serves as Chief Executive Officer of American Alternative Court Services (AACS) in Atlanta, where he conducts diagnostic and biopsychosocial assessments and develops treatment and diversion programs.

He collaborates with justice system stakeholders to improve access to behavioral health services and alternative sentencing solutions. Dr. Khorozian previously worked as a Behavioral Health Social Worker with the Fulton County Public Defender's Office, where he assessed client needs and coordinated services.

He also held a leadership role as Division Chief with the San Francisco Superior Court, managing operations and contributing to strategic initiatives. He holds a Ph.D. in Positive Psychology, a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology.

His professional memberships include the American Counseling Association (ACA), the American Positive Psychology Association (AMPPA), the Licensed Professional Counselors Association of Georgia (LPCA), the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), and the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Certification Board of Georgia (ADACBGA).

Dr. Khorozian has advanced certifications as a Certified Clinical Supervisor, Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), Family Violence Intervention Specialist, and DUI Evaluator. He is recognized for his expertise in counseling techniques, assessment, diagnosis, and culturally responsive care. His work focuses on improving population health outcomes through evidence-based behavioral health programs.