How Often Do They Drug Test CDL Drivers?

As a CDL driver, it's important to know the drug testing requirements you must comply with. In this article, I will discuss the frequency of drug testing for CDL drivers and the consequences of failing a drug test.

Drug Testing Requirements for CDL Drivers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the drug testing requirements for CDL drivers. All CDL drivers must undergo drug testing as part of the pre-employment process. Additionally, drivers must be randomly tested at least once a year.

Pre-Employment Drug Testing

Before a driver can be hired, they must pass a drug test. The employer is responsible for administering the test and paying for it. The driver must pass the drug test before they can operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).

Random Drug Testing

Random drug testing is required by the FMCSA to ensure that CDL drivers are not using drugs on the job. The number of tests required each year is based on the percentage of drivers in the company's testing pool. For example, if a company has 100 drivers in their testing pool, and the required testing rate is 50%, the company must conduct 50 tests each year.

Post-Accident Drug Testing

If a CDL driver is involved in an accident that results in a fatality or requires the vehicle to be towed, the driver must undergo a drug test. The drug test must be administered within 8 hours of the accident.

FMCSA Post Accident Drug Testing - Everything We Know

Reasonable Suspicion Drug Testing

If a supervisor has reasonable suspicion that a CDL driver is using drugs, they can request that the driver undergo a drug test. The supervisor must have specific facts that lead them to believe the driver is impaired, such as slurred speech or unsteady movements.

Follow-Up Drug Testing

If a CDL driver fails a drug test, they must complete a rehabilitation program before they can return to driving. After completing the program, the driver must pass a drug test before they can drive again. The driver will be subject to follow-up drug testing for at least one year after returning to driving.

Consequences of Failing a Drug Test

If a CDL driver fails a drug test, they will be removed from driving duties immediately. The driver will be required to complete a substance abuse program before they can return to driving. The driver's employer may also be subject to fines or penalties for allowing the driver to operate a CMV while under the influence of drugs.

Conclusion

Drug testing is an important part of the CDL driver's job. CDL drivers are subject to pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and follow-up drug testing. Failing a drug test can result in the loss of a driver's job and other consequences.

FAQs

1. How often are CDL drivers randomly drug tested?

CDL drivers are randomly drug tested at least once a year. The number of tests required each year is based on the percentage of drivers in the company's testing pool.

2. What happens if a CDL driver fails a drug test?

If a CDL driver fails a drug test, they will be removed from driving duties immediately. The driver will be required to complete a substance abuse program before they can return to driving.

3. What is the consequence of an employer allowing a driver to operate a CMV while under the influence of drugs?

Employers may be subject to fines or penalties for allowing a driver to operate a CMV while under the influence of drugs.

4. How soon after an accident must a CDL driver be drug tested?

If a CDL driver is involved in an accident that results in a fatality or requires the vehicle to be towed, the driver must undergo a drug test within 8 hours of the accident.

5. Can CDL drivers refuse to take a drug test?

Refusing to take a drug test is considered a violation and can result in the driver losing their job. CDL drivers must comply with drug testing requirements to maintain their commercial driving privileges.