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DOT Drug Test, NON-DOT and FMCSA Clearinghouse

DOT Drug Test, NON-DOT and FMCSA Clearinghouse

Your Guide to Workplace Drug Testing in 2025

Managing an employee drug screening program involves navigating a web of federal, state, and company-specific rules. For any employer, creating a compliant and safe workplace is a top priority. Whether your business is in a federally regulated industry or you are establishing a drug-free environment, understanding the types of testing available is the foundation of a strong program.

This guide will clarify the essentials of employee drug testing. We will explore the key differences between regulated Department of Transportation (DOT) tests and non-regulated (NON-DOT) screenings, as well as the important role of the FMCSA Clearinghouse. You will gain a clear picture of your responsibilities and how to build a screening program that safeguards your company and its employees.

What Our Customers Say about Us

John L gave us a 5 star google rating and said, From the beginning, Brenda has been a wealth of knowledge and has been very patient explaining aspects of the DOT random drug testing program. I called multiple times to clarify our responsibility and what WSI could do to help and Brenda has been cheerful and eager to help us get started. Phil the CEO of the company also provided guidance and was knowledgeable and was very pleasant throughout. I’m glad to have found WSI, this is truly a customer first company.

For more 5-star reviews: https://workplacescreening.com/testimonials/

Need a Customer First Company to manage your employee screening program or to order a drug screen or other employee screening service today?  Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/

Need to order a drug test or other employee screening service today?  Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/

For More Google Reviews: https://workplacescreening.com/testimonials/

Understanding Employee Drug Testing

Employers use drug testing to promote workplace safety and deter substance use. A well-designed program can lead to fewer accidents, reduced employee turnover, and higher productivity. Testing programs are generally divided into two main categories: regulated and non-regulated.

Regulated Drug Test vs. Non Regulated Drug Test

The primary distinction between these test types is the authority that governs them.

  • Regulated Drug Test: This screening is required by a federal agency, most often the Department of Transportation (DOT). Every step, from specimen collection to lab analysis and reporting, follows strict federal guidelines (49 CFR Part 40). These regulations ensure consistency and fairness for all safety-sensitive roles.
  • Non Regulated Drug Test: Also called a NON-DOT test, this screening is based on an employer’s internal company policy. While not federally mandated, these programs must still adhere to state and local laws. Employers have greater flexibility in designing NON-DOT programs, such as choosing which substances to screen for and the testing methods used.

What is a DOT Drug Test?

A DOT drug test is a federally required screening for individuals in safety-sensitive positions within the transportation sector. These industries fall under the oversight of specific DOT agencies:

  • Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): Commercial truck and bus drivers.
  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Pilots, flight attendants, and aircraft mechanics.
  • Federal Railroad Administration (FRA): Engineers, conductors, and other railroad personnel.
  • Federal Transit Administration (FTA): Public transit operators and controllers.
  • Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA): Workers involved in pipeline operations.
  • U.S. Coast Guard (USCG): Crew on commercial vessels.

The standard DOT screening is always a 5-panel urine test that looks for Marijuana (THC), Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). The entire process is standardized, conducted at a certified lab, and all results are reviewed by a Medical Review Officer (MRO) before they are reported.

Need more info on Dot Drug Test: Dot Drug Alcohol

What is a NON DOT Drug Test?

A NON DOT drug test is any screening implemented based on an employer’s own policy rather than a federal requirement. This is the most prevalent form of workplace drug screening. Businesses have significant freedom to create NON-DOT programs tailored to their specific needs and state regulations.

Key characteristics of NON DOT screening include:

  • Flexible Panels: Employers can test for more substances than the standard 5-panel. Options like 10-panel or 12-panel tests can add substances such as benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or fentanyl. It is also possible to order tests that specifically exclude THC, a growing trend as state laws evolve.
  • Multiple Testing Methods: Beyond urine tests, employers can opt for hair, oral fluid (saliva), or blood testing. A hair test, for example, provides a longer detection window of up to 90 days.
  • Customizable Policies: Companies can define their own testing criteria (e.g., pre-employment, random, post-accident) and determine the consequences for a positive result, provided the policies are applied consistently and follow state laws.

Need more info on NON DOT Drug Test: https://workplacescreening.com/for-non-dot/

The Role of the Medical Review Officer (MRO)

The Medical Review Officer is a crucial figure in both DOT and NON DOT testing. An MRO is a licensed physician with specialized training in interpreting drug test results. Their main job is to review lab findings to see if a legitimate medical reason exists for a non-negative result. For example, if a test is positive for opioids, the MRO will contact the employee to check for a valid prescription. This confidential process protects the employee’s privacy while providing the employer with an accurate final report.

The FMCSA Clearinghouse Explained

For employers under FMCSA regulation, the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a vital compliance tool. This secure online database, launched in 2020, provides real-time access to information about drug and alcohol violations for holders of a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Employers are mandated to use the Clearinghouse to:

  • Run Pre-Employment Queries: Before hiring a driver, a full query must be conducted to check for unresolved violations.
  • Conduct Annual Queries: A query must be run on all current CDL drivers at least once per year.
  • Report Violations: Employers must report alcohol test results of 0.04 or greater, test refusals, and other knowledge of violations.
  • Update Return-to-Duty Status: Information must be reported when a driver completes the return-to-duty process.

Helpful FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse info:

What is the  Name of FMCSA Clearinghouse?

There are several names that FMCSA and the industry have for the Clearinghouse:

FMCSA Clearinghouse

FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

Clearinghouse FMCSA

Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

DOT Clearinghouse

Clearinghouse

Owner Operator FMCSA Clearinghouse

FMCSA Log in For Employers and Drivers – Link Below for Registration and Log in:

https://secure.login.gov

For more info on FMCSA Clearinghouse Services:  Fmcsa Chs

DOT and NON-DOT Physicals

Beyond drug screening, many companies require physicals to ensure employees are fit for their roles.

DOT Physical

This is a comprehensive medical exam required for all commercial motor vehicle drivers. It must be conducted by a certified Medical Examiner listed on the FMCSA’s National Registry. The exam evaluates a driver’s vision, hearing, blood pressure, and general health to confirm they can operate a commercial vehicle safely.  DOT Medical Cards must be repeated every 2 Years.  If you have an unaddressed illness, you may need to repeat every 90-365 days.

For more info on DOT Physicals: Dot Physical

NON DOT Physical

This is a fitness-for-duty exam based on company policy and tailored to a job’s specific physical demands. For instance, a physical for a warehouse position might focus on lifting capacity and cardiovascular health.

NON DOT Physical Menu

Essential Training for Employers

A drug-free workplace program’s effectiveness depends on the people managing it. Proper training for supervisors and Designated Employer Representatives (DERs) is a critical component.

Supervisor Reasonable Suspicion Training

DOT regulations require supervisors of CDL drivers to complete 60 minutes of training on alcohol misuse and 60 minutes on controlled substance use. This training helps them identify signs of impairment and confidently decide when to order a reasonable suspicion test. This is also a best practice for NON-DOT employers to maintain a safe environment and prevent accidents.

For more info on Supervisor Reasonable Suspicion Training: Training

Other Important Training

  • DER Training: The DER is the main contact for the drug testing program. Training ensures they understand their duties, from managing random pools to handling results.
  • DOT Collector Training: Individuals collecting specimens for DOT tests need specific training to ensure the integrity of the process.

Need to order Employer Training or other employee screening service? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if an employee refuses a DOT drug test?
Under DOT rules, a refusal is treated as a positive result. The employee is immediately removed from safety-sensitive duties and must complete the return-to-duty process with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

For more info on Return to Duty Process: Return To Duty Process

Can an employee be fired for a first-time positive NON-DOT drug test?
This is determined by your company’s written policy and state laws. Some states have specific protections for employees. Your policy must clearly state the consequences of a positive test and be applied consistently.

Need help with a customized drug and alcohol testing policy? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/

How long do violations stay in the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
A violation remains for five years or until the driver completes the return-to-duty process, whichever is longer. Although the driver will show allowed to perform safety sensitive duties, the violation itself will remain for 5 years.  This will show as an issue when annual queries are completed.  An additional query will clear the issue.

Can I get  a Titer Test Near Me from WSI?

Yes you can.  For more information on WSI Titer Testing Program: Titer Testing

Let Our 30 Years of Experience Be Your Peace of Mind

Compliance with federal and state drug and alcohol testing regulations can be challenging, but you don’t have to manage it alone. At Workplace Screening Intelligence, we have over 30 years of experience helping employers navigate these complex requirements. We handle the compliance details so you can focus on running your business.

We are here for you when you need us. Whether you need to order a single test or implement a comprehensive, nationwide screening program, our knowledgeable support staff is ready to assist.

Need to order a drug test or another employee screening service today? Contact us at 844-573-8378 or order now through our secure online portal.

What Our Customers Say about WSI

Lisa with WSI has been an incredible help throughout our enrollment process. Given the nature of our work, our hours can be unpredictable and all over the place—but Lisa has consistently worked around our erratic schedule with patience, professionalism, and a genuine willingness to support.
For More Google Reviews: https://workplacescreening.com/testimonials/

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Tags:

dot drug test, fmcsa clearinghouse, NON-DOT