A DOT physical is an extensive health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This examination verifies that drivers are physically, mentally, and emotionally equipped to handle large vehicles on public roadways safely. A certified medical examiner (CME), listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), conducts the DOT physical. Success in the exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, or Medical Examiners Certificate, often referred to as a DOT medical card, necessary to uphold a valid CDL license per FMCSA guidelines. If you're subject to another DOT agency's regulation and require help identifying the required 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.
FMCSA: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
According to 49 CFR 382.305, employers, including those based in Ottumwa, IA, must sustain a compliant random program. For owner-operators, joining a consortium pool is mandatory, incorporating at least two other covered employees.
USCG: United States Coast Guard (currently under the jurisdiction of Homeland Security)
Marine employers, governed by 46 CFR Part 16.230, are obligated to execute random drug tests for crewmembers engaged in safety-sensitive roles. This legislation applies uniformly across all states, including Ottumwa, IA, promoting a commitment to maritime safety standards.
FAA: Federal Aviation Administration
Under 14 CFR Part 120, employers must incorporate all functions that are safety-sensitive. The same standards apply in Ottumwa, IA, where all aviation activities must adhere to these rigorous safety protocols.
Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) holds the authority over rail safety, including within Ottumwa, IA. Rail companies are tasked with submitting and executing an FRA-approved random drug and alcohol testing plan, as per 49 CFR 219.601-219.609, to ensure operational safety on the rail tracks.
| Employee Category | Drugs | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Service | 25% | 10% |
| Maintenance of Way / Roadway Workers | 25% | 10% |
| Mechanical | 50% | 25% |
Ottumwa, IA employers operating under 49 CFR Part 655 are obliged to implement a scientifically valid employee selection procedure to ensure random testing compliance and maintain workplace safety.
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)
Operators who fall under the jurisdiction of Parts 192, 193, or 195 are required to test covered employees according to 49 CFR Part 199 standards. This requirement is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance in the pipeline and hazardous materials sector within all states, including the state of Ottumwa, IA.
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:
Frequently Asked Questions
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