The Facts About Drug Testing
You probably already know this, but there are different pools for different jobs within DOT drug testing.
FMCSA Drug Testing Requirements
FMCSA is for truck drivers. It gets a little confusing, but really, it’s only for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers that hold a CDL. That means that if you hold a CDL and are utilizing your CDL for a job, you need to have an initial negative drug test and be in a random drug testing program.
The Consortium
We call that a consortium. It’s a pool of drivers that can be from different companies but all fall under the same regulations for drug testing. The consortium ensures that you are in compliance with federal regulations for random selections.
Post-Accident Drug Testing
Here is the kicker… If you are operating a CMV as defined by FMCSA (any vehicle that crosses state lines and has a GVWR [Gross Vehicle Weight Rating] over 10,000 lbs) and are involved in an accident, then you need to take a post-accident drug test, as long as the accident meets the criteria set by FMCSA.
If there is a fatality, you get a post-accident drug test. Or if your driver receives a citation, a vehicle is towed, or someone is transported to the hospital by emergency vehicles.
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