Use the following guidelines to create and maintain your company’s drug and alcohol program. Remember that regular testing can identify substance abuse issues early, allowing drivers to seek necessary treatment and support.
For information specific to farms and possible exemptions, visit farm fleet best practices.
Use the FMCSA guidelines for drug and alcohol testing programs when creating your drug and alcohol policy. Involve all members of your company, including:
We also recommend working with your consortia or third-party administrator when developing this policy, as you will be making critical decisions that can affect your operations.
FMCSA regulation 49 CFR 382.401 requires you keep drug and alcohol files, which are essential for commercial drivers as they play a critical role in ensuring road safety, regulatory compliance and driver accountability.
Maintaining these files also promotes a culture of accountability by making it difficult for drivers to conceal past violations.
This checklist (PDF) outlines the requirements for your drug and alcohol files for drivers. It includes links to the regulation code sections for the requirements.
Negative test results for drug or alcohol tests must be kept for a minimum of one year.
Positive results from a drug or alcohol test and any documentation you have that reference a test refusal should be kept for 5 years.
Supervisors of CDL drivers must complete a one-time, 60-minute training on alcohol awareness and another 60-minute on controlled substances. Update this training if you change testing procedures. Training can be done via video or online, but make sure it includes your specific procedures.
Your consortium or third-party administrator (C/TPA) will provide these reports.
Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP) have to issue a report. Refer to FMCSA regulation 49 CFR 382.401 to see which forms and reports are required to keep in your driver files.
SAPs are also required to upload this information into the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.
You are required to provide drivers with a copy of your drug and alcohol testing policy and procedures and have a signed acknowledgment form in the file.