A DOT physical is an in-depth medical evaluation mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for individuals driving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). This examination ensures that these drivers have the requisite physical, mental, and emotional capabilities to operate large vehicles safely on public thoroughfares. A certified medical examiner (CME) registered with the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conducts the DOT physical. Successfully passing results in a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiner's Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), essential for holding a valid CDL license per FMCSA rules. If governed by another DOT agency and need help determining the necessary DOT physical, reach out to 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
Employers that fall under the jurisdiction of 49 CFR 382.305 are required to maintain a compliant random drug and alcohol testing program. For eligibility and compliance, Owner-operators must be part of a consortium pool that consists of two or more covered employees. This is a crucial requirement applicable even in states like Paterson, NJ.
USCG- United States Coast Guard (now under Homeland Security)
Marine employers are demanded under 46 CFR Part 16.230 to conduct random drug testing for employees engaged in safety-sensitive positions. Paterson, NJ's maritime field is no exception to these standards, emphasizing safety across its coastal industries.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Following the regulations outlined in 14 CFR Part 120, employers must incorporate all safety-sensitive duties into their testing protocols. In Paterson, NJ, the aviation sector adheres to this by including rigorous testing processes that cover key safety positions to maintain operational integrity.
In the state of Paterson, NJ, as with all U.S. states, railroads must develop and adhere to an FRA-sanctioned random plan as specified under 49 CFR 219.601-219.609. Compliance with this plan is imperative for maintaining operational integrity and safety standards.
| Employee Category | Drugs | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Service | 25% | 10% |
| Maintenance of Way / Roadway Workers | 25% | 10% |
| Mechanical | 50% | 25% |
Paterson, NJ-based employers under the jurisdiction of 49 CFR Part 655 must employ a selection technique that is scientifically valid. This ensures fair and unbiased selection within random drug and alcohol testing programs across the region.
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) mandates rigorous testing frameworks for all operators within Paterson, NJ dealing with pipelines and hazardous materials.
Those regulated by Parts 192, 193, or 195 must test employees covered under 49 CFR Part 199 to ensure safety and compliance in handling potentially dangerous substances.
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?
Answer: A consortium C/TPA acts as a service agent managing part or all of an employer's drug and alcohol testing responsibilities, including setting up random testing pools and ensuring compliance according to 49 CFR part 40.
Are random testing percentages always the same or do they change?
Answer: The DOT can adjust random testing percentages annually based on the positivity rate. Regardless, in our consortium, all random testing fees, irrespective of the rate, are covered.
What happens when I am selected for a random test?
Answer: ADT informs the company DER or Owner Operator through email or phone specifying the nearby testing location and instructions. The selected employee is required to report promptly to the test center following notification.
What drugs are tested on a DOT drug test?
Answer: A DOT drug test involves a DOT 5 panel urine examination and a DOT breath alcohol evaluation, ensuring all tests are carried out on a Federal CCF and Federal Alcohol Testing Form.
Can you help during a DOT audit or inspection?
Answer: Yes, ADT offers support by organizing the necessary paperwork, including pre-employment tests, proof of random pool enrollment, supervisor training certificates, and DOT policy developments.
How often can I update my employee pool?
Answer: Employee roster updates are confirmed quarterly. Employers can add or remove covered employees anytime before selection dates.
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