A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. It confirms that professional drivers possess the physical, mental, and emotional fitness necessary to operate large vehicles safely on public highways. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), essential for retaining a valid CDL license under FMCSA rules. If adherence to another DOT agency is required, and you need guidance on the appropriate DOT physical, contact us at 800-221-4291.
Owner Operators- DOT requires all owner-operators to enroll in a consortium so they are included in a compliant random testing pool because they cannot randomly test themselves.
Small Employers-Some smaller companies may not have enough drivers or safety-sensitive employees to maintain their own statistically valid random pool. Therefore, by joining a consortium, they are combined with other companies to form a large pool that meets DOT testing requirements.
Large Employers-Larger fleets may manage their own random pool but often use a consortium/TPA to outsource the process, reduce administrative burden, and ensure strict compliance.
How Our DOT Consortium Works
Step 1: Enroll: Select a 1, 2, or 3 year membership and receive your Certificate of Compliance by email. Quarterly Selections: We process our consortiums using a scientifically valid, computer-generated random draws each quarter.Immediate Notifications: If selected, your DER receives email & phone notice with selection instructions.
Testing & Results: Visit the assigned testing center. ADT will manage CCFs, lab processing, and reporting.
MIS Reporting: Year-end and on-demand MIS reports included.
Included With Membership
Percentages are set by each DOT agency and may change.
The FMCSA, or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, requires all employers under 49 CFR 382.305 to sustain a compliant random testing program. This applies to organizations like owner-operators who must join a consortium with at least two covered individuals. In the state of Gulf Shores, AL, this ensures transportation safety and regulatory compliance.
USCG: United States Coast Guard (now integrated with Homeland Security)
In the state of Gulf Shores, AL, marine employers regulated by 46 CFR Part 16.230 are required to carry out random drug tests for all safety-sensitive crewmembers. This measure is integral in maintaining a secure maritime environment, ensuring operations are conducted safely.
Although alcohol testing is not part of the random protocol for the USCG, the controlled substances testing significantly contributes to maritime safety in Gulf Shores, AL and beyond.
FAA: Federal Aviation Administration
Employers functioning under 14 CFR Part 120 must involve all safety-sensitive operations and functions. This directive includes implementations across Gulf Shores, AL.
Railroads must submit and follow an FRA-approved random plan
| Employee Category | Drugs | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Service | 25% | 10% |
| Maintenance of Way / Roadway Workers | 25% | 10% |
| Mechanical | 50% | 25% |
FTA Regulations for Transit Employers
Under 49 CFR Part 655, transit employers are required to utilize a scientifically valid selection procedure for random testing. This helps ensure safety across public transportation networks.
Gulf Shores, AL's public transportation systems benefit from such requirements, guiding them to maintain high safety standards and ensuring commuter confidence in the system's reliability.
PHMSA regulations
Operators within Gulf Shores, AL, subject to regulations outlined in Parts 192, 193, or 195, must conduct tests on covered employees according to 49 CFR Part 199 to ensure a safe and compliant workforce.
Joining our DOT consortium is the fastest way to achieve immediate compliance. We provide the Certificate of Compliance, random selections, MIS reports and testing coordination.
ENROLL TODAYNeed more tests? Additional DOT drug tests can be added at a discount.
Enroll Today! (800) 221-4291Immediate compliance for DOT random testing. Perfect for owner-operators and employers of any size.
Failing to comply with DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements can result in severe consequences for both employers and drivers, including:
What is a DOT Consortium (C/TPA) and who needs it?
A consortium C/TPA acts as a service agent managing part or all of an employer's drug and alcohol testing programs, including overseeing random testing pools and other compliance tasks under 49 CFR part 40.
Are random testing percentages always the same or do they change?
DOT random testing rates may fluctuate annually based on the positivity rate; however, in our consortium, regardless of the random testing rate, all DOT random testing fees are accommodated.
What happens when I am selected for a random test?
ADT will notify the company's DER or Owner Operator via email or phone with the nearest testing location and instructions. The selected individual must proceed to the testing center immediately upon notification.
What drugs are tested on a DOT drug test?
A DOT drug test includes a DOT 5 panel urine test and a DOT breath alcohol test. It's important to ensure tests are conducted using a Federal CCF and Federal Alcohol Testing Form.
Can you help during a DOT audit or inspection?
Yes, ADT can provide the required documentation and resources such as pre-employment test records, proof of random pool enrollment, supervisor training certificates, DOT policy development, and MIS reports.
How often can I update my employee pool?
We update employee rosters quarterly. Employers can add or remove covered employees anytime before selection dates.
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers
