A DOT physical is a thorough medical assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMV). This examination ensures that those driving large vehicles on public routes are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing the exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), necessary for maintaining a valid CDL license according to FMCSA guidelines. If you're overseen by a different DOT agency and require help determining the specific DOT physical needed, 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
In Helena, MT and beyond, employers regulated by 49 CFR 382.305 must execute a legally compliant random testing program. Owner-operators are required to be part of a consortium pool composed of at least two covered employees.
The United States Coast Guard, now part of Homeland Security, mandates marine employers operating under 46 CFR Part 16.230 to conduct random drug tests for their safety-sensitive positions. An essential practice in Helena, MT, these tests help ensure the safety of operations performed by crewmembers on maritime vessels.
FAA: Federal Aviation Administration
Under 14 CFR Part 120, employers are mandated to include all safety-critical functions in their operations. In Helena, MT, this is particularly essential given the state's vast air traffic and logistics network.
Railroads are required to submit and abide by a random testing plan approved by the FRA (49 CFR 219.601-219.609). This regulation applies across various states, including Helena, MT, ensuring that safety remains a top priority on railways.
| Employee Category | Drugs | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Service | 25% | 10% |
| Maintenance of Way / Roadway Workers | 25% | 10% |
| Mechanical | 50% | 25% |
Employers governed by 49 CFR Part 655 are obligated to utilize scientifically valid selection methods for testing. This ensures a higher level of safety and compliance, notably impacting public transportation systems in locations such as Helena, MT.
Operators accountable for Parts 192, 193, or 195 are directed to test their covered employees in accordance with the standards set under 49 CFR Part 199. This establishes a benchmark for safe operational practices that is uniformly respected across various states, including Helena, MT, to secure the integrity of pipeline operations and the wellbeing of communities.
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 is a specialized service agent that oversees all or part of an employer's drug and alcohol testing program, managing random testing pools and ensuring compliance with 49 CFR part 40.
Are random testing percentages always the same or do they change?
The percentages for DOT random testing can vary each year depending on the positivity rate; however, in our consortium, regardless of the testing rate, all DOT random testing fees are included.
What happens when I am selected for a random test?
ADT contacts the company's Designated Employer Representative (DER) or Owner Operator via email or phone, providing the nearest testing location and instructions. The selected employee must immediately report to the testing center upon notification.
What drugs are tested on a DOT drug test?
A DOT drug test involves a DOT 5-panel urine screening and a DOT breath alcohol test. Ensure all tests are conducted using a Federal CCF and Federal Alcohol Testing forms.
Can you help during a DOT audit or inspection?
Yes, ADT assists by organizing necessary documentation such as pre-employment tests, proof of random pool enrollment, supervisor training certificates, DOT policy development, and MIS reports.
How often can I update my employee pool?
Employee roster updates are confirmed each quarter. Employers can add or remove covered employees at any time before selection dates.
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