Quickly navigating the ramifications of a refused or failed drug test when you’re a commercial driver is essential for returning to work. Violations against the Department of Transportation (DOT) require that a commercial driver undergoes an SAP Evaluation to Return-to-Duty (RTD) and continue working commercially. This guide aims to walk you through the SAP Program and how to ensure you meet the necessary criteria to re-enter the workforce.
What is an SAP Evaluation?
A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) Evaluation is a process for CDL drivers who have violated the DOT’s regulations via drugs or alcohol. When drivers refuse or fail to take a drug test, they become prohibited from operating a commercial vehicle until they complete an SAP Program. The entire process can take quite a lot of time, so you must act quickly to regain your ability to drive commercially.
How to Return-to-Duty
Once you are required to go through an SAP evaluation, the steps required can be confusing. Here are the steps you should take to return to work as a commercial driver:
- Initial Referral
- The initial referral is required after being removed from duty for the violation. Getting a referral to a DOT-qualified SAP is required to re-enter the workforce.
- SAP Evaluation
- The SAP conducts a face-to-face evaluation of your drug history and alcohol history. A SAP evaluation can be done in person or through a video conference program like Zoom.
- The SAP will make a recommendation depending on your circumstances, typically offering counseling or educational programs.
- Follow-up Evaluation
- The SAP will do a follow-up evaluation. This evaluation is done after the completion of the requested programs.
- Drug / Alcohol Test
- Once the SAP clears you, you will need to pass a DOT drug or alcohol test. This test is necessary; failure will require you to restart the process.
- Return-to-Duty
- Finally, you can be rehired by your employer and RTD. Typically, a randomized testing plan is implemented, which subjects you to random drug and alcohol tests for up to five years following the violation.
Why Are you Required to undertake an SAP Program?
While it is evident that drug use and alcohol drastically endanger yourself and others on the road, an SAP evaluation is more than just a punishment. The whole process is aimed at the driver to help them understand their behavior and why it is dangerous and to guide them to make the needed changes to get them back into the workforce.
Completing an SAP Program demonstrates that you can grow, learn, and commit to road safety. A successful evaluation means that you can restore your career and continue to drive professionally.
Bottom Line
Undergoing an SAP evaluation and regaining the ability to work again can be frustrating and daunting, but it is necessary. By completing the SAP Program, you will have demonstrated your ability to grow and clear the path to retaining your driving privileges. If you are currently facing a drug or alcohol violation, take the above steps to regain your employment. Your career and safety are worth the effort.
