The DOT physical is an in-depth health screening mandated by the U.S. Department of Transportation for drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This test is essential to ensure that drivers are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to handle large vehicles safely on the highways. A certified medical examiner (CME) from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conducts the assessment. Successfully passing the exam results in obtaining a DOT medical certificate, also known as a Medical Examiners Certificate or DOT medical card, necessary for keeping a CDL license valid under FMCSA rules. If you are subject to other DOT regulations and need help understanding the specific exam required, you can 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 Pella, IA, must sustain a compliant random program. For owner-operators, joining a consortium pool is mandatory, incorporating at least two other covered employees.
The United States Coast Guard (USCG), now operating under the Department of Homeland Security, mandates that marine employers conduct random drug tests in accordance with 46 CFR Part 16.230. This is crucial for safety-sensitive crewmembers and is enforced across states including Pella, IA.
FAA: Federal Aviation Administration
In Pella, IA, railroads are mandated to prepare and adhere to a random testing plan approved by the FRA as specified under 49 CFR 219.601-219.609. This requirement is part of broader efforts to ensure the integrity and safety of rail operations by deterring substance abuse among railroad employees.
| Employee Category | Drugs | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Service | 25% | 10% |
| Maintenance of Way / Roadway Workers | 25% | 10% |
| Mechanical | 50% | 25% |
Under 49 CFR Part 655, employers must implement a scientifically valid method for selecting employees for testing. This standard is applied nationwide, including public transportation systems and employers in Pella, IA, to maintain safety and compliance.
Operators governed by Parts 192, 193, or 195 are tasked with testing covered employees in accordance with 49 CFR Part 199. This imperative applies universally, including within Pella, IA, safeguarding the integrity of the nation's pipelines.
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 C/TPA is a service provider that oversees either part or all of an employer's drug and alcohol testing program, coordinating random testing pools according to 49 CFR part 40 regulations.
Are random testing percentages always fixed or variable?
The rates for DOT random testing can fluctuate each year depending on the positivity rate; however, within our consortium, every DOT random testing fee is covered, regardless of the rate.
What occurs when I'm notified for a random test?
ADT will inform the company DER or Owner Operator via email/phone with details about the nearest testing location and guide them on the necessary steps. Once informed, the selected individual must promptly head to the testing site.
What substances are screened in a DOT drug test?
The DOT drug test checks for a DOT 5-panel urine and conducts a DOT breath alcohol test. It is essential that all tests are performed using a Federal CCF form alongside a Federal Alcohol Testing Form.
Assistance available during a DOT audit or inspection?
Yes, ADT can help organize imperative documentation like pre-employment tests, proof of random pool membership, supervisor training certificates, DOT policy development, and MIS reports.
Frequency of updating my employee pool?
We confirm updates to the employee roster every quarter. Employers can add or remove covered employees ahead of selection dates as needed.
Enter your zip code to find nearby test centers
