Failed a DOT Drug or Alcohol Test?

Failed a DOT Drug or Alcohol Test? Here’s How to Get Back on the Road

Failed a DOT Drug or Alcohol Test? Here’s How to Get Back on the Road

If you’re a commercial driver and tested positive for drugs or alcohol, you might initially feel like your career just hit a dead end. But take a deep breath, there’s a clear path forward!

The Department of Transportation (DOT) has a structured DOT Return-to-Duty process, and AACS Counseling is here to help you complete it as quickly and smoothly as possible. Our DOT SAP Program is designed to guide you through each step. ensure compliance so you can regain your livelihood.

What Happens After a Positive DOT Test?

A failed test means you’re immediately removed from driving or any other safety-sensitive job. But that doesn’t mean your career is over. You just need to follow the DOT’s official process to get back on the road.

Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Step One: Meet with a DOT-Qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)
    The first thing you need to do is schedule an SAP evaluation with a DOT-qualified SAP like the experts at AACS Counseling. This is required before you can take any further steps in the DOT Return-to-Duty process.
  2. Step Two: Complete Your Personalized Treatment or Education Plan
    Based on your SAP evaluation, you’ll complete a program designed to help you move forward. This could include education, counseling, or treatment. The DOT SAP Program ensures that you receive the necessary interventions to be eligible for reinstatement.
  3. Step Three: Get Your Follow-Up SAP Evaluation
    Once you’ve finished your program, you’ll meet with the SAP again to confirm you’re ready to return to work. If you’ve followed all recommendations, you’ll receive a report clearing you for the next step in the DOT Return-to-Duty process.
  4. Step Four: Pass a Return-to-Duty Drug or Alcohol Test
    Before you can get back behind the wheel, you’ll need to take a DOT-regulated test. It must come back negative for you to resume driving. This is a crucial step in demonstrating compliance with the DOT SAP Program.
  5. Step Five: Follow-Up Testing
    Even after returning to duty, you’ll be required to complete random follow-up testing for up to five years. This helps ensure ongoing compliance with DOT regulations and maintains workplace safety.

Why Choose AACS Counseling?

We know this process can be frustrating, and you want to return to work ASAP.

That’s why we offer:

  • Fast Evaluations – We get you in quickly so you can start the process without delays.
  • Support Every Step of the Way – From your first SAP evaluation to your return-to-duty test, we’re here to guide you through the entire process, providing the reassurance you need.
  • DOT-Approved Compliance – Our DOT SAP Program meets all DOT and FMCSA requirements, so you won’t run into surprises.
  • Affordable Services – We provide cost-effective SAP evaluations and programs, relieving you of the financial burden as you move forward.
Don’t Wait—Start the Process Today!

A failed test doesn’t have to mean the end of your career. AACS Counseling has helped countless drivers complete their DOT Return-to-Duty process and get back on the road. The sooner you start, the sooner you can regain your CDL and get back to work.

Call us now to schedule your SAP evaluation and take the first step toward reclaiming your job!

Call 800-683-7745 or email info@aacscounseling.com

About the Author

Jacques Khorozian

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.


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