Since January 2020, there have been approximately 187,000 DOT drug test violations reported to the FMCSA Clearinghouse. Each person’s situation is unique, but the collective data reveals some noticeable trends. Let’s explore the most common reasons for a positive DOT drug test and what you can do if you fail a drug test in the future.
When Most People Fail DOT Drug Tests
As expected, pre-employment drug tests have the highest volume of testing violations. There were 40,526 failed pre-employment tests in 2022, representing 57% of drug and alcohol violations. Random drug testing was the second most prevalent category with 20,328 reported violations. Post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing all had under 2,700 violations each.
Most Common Substances on Positive DOT Drug Tests
Positive drug tests account for 82% of total violations. Refusals and alcohol testing make up the remaining 18%. Here is an overview of the most common substances reported on DOT drug tests:
- Marijuana: 40,916 violations
- Cocaine: 10,953 violations
- Methamphetamine: 5,569 violations
- Amphetamine: 5,349 violations
- Oxymorphone: 1,398 violations
- Oxycodone: 1,130 violations
- Hydrocodone: 1,042 violations
- Hydromorphone, morphine, codeine, 6-acetylmorphine, PCP, ecstasy, and MDA: Less than 1,000 violations each
It’s important to note that refusing a drug test is considered a failed drug test. It will get reported to the clearinghouse just like a positive test result will. Be prepared for random drug testing from your employer at any time, in accordance with DOT regulations.
What to Do If You Fail a DOT Drug Test
If you fail or refuse a DOT drug test, you will need to complete the Return-to-Duty process. This is a personalized set of steps outlined by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). You will need to find a qualified DOT SAP list. You may be asked to complete counseling, education, or substance abuse treatment before being re-evaluated for work. Once you complete the steps in your RTD program, you can return to your SAP to be cleared for work.
You cannot complete safety-sensitive job duties until you’ve completed your SAP program. The Clearinghouse violation will only fall off after you’ve completed the program, and it will still remain on your record for at least seven years. The sooner you can get through the process, the easier it will be to transition back to work.
After RTD, you will need to pass multiple drug tests within the first year. This will be in addition to any random drug testing your employer may conduct. Your SAP can brief you on the process, so you know exactly what to expect moving forward.
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