A DOT physical is an extensive health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all operators of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). This evaluation ensures drivers possess the necessary physical, mental, and emotional stability to safely handle large vehicles on the roads. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) registered with the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), clearing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (also known as a DOT medical card), essential for retaining a valid CDL license as per FMCSA guidelines. For guidance on the required DOT physical if you fall under another DOT agency's jurisdiction, call 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
Under the guidelines of 49 CFR 382.305, companies must implement a random testing program that complies with federal standards. Owner-operators in Chapel Hill, NC are required to join a consortium pool consisting of two or more covered employees.
USCG: United States Coast Guard (now under homeland security)
Marine employers, including those operating within or outside Chapel Hill, NC, under 46 CFR Part 16.230 must conduct random drug tests for safety-sensitive crew members.
FAA: Federal Aviation Administration
Employers regulated under 14 CFR Part 120 are required to include all safety-sensitive functions in their operations. In Chapel Hill, NC, these rules ensure the safety of the aviation workforce.
Railroads are required to submit and adhere to a random plan approved by the FRA, as outlined in 49 CFR 219.601-219.609. This ensures that railway operations in Chapel Hill, NC comply with federal safety regulations, maintaining the welfare of both employees and passengers and safeguarding the extensive rail networks that traverse the state.
| Employee Category | Drugs | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Service | 25% | 10% |
| Maintenance of Way / Roadway Workers | 25% | 10% |
| Mechanical | 50% | 25% |
FTA: Federal Transit Administration - Chapel Hill, NC Testing Regulations
Employers throughout Chapel Hill, NC, regulated by 49 CFR Part 655, must adopt a scientifically reliable method for selecting participants for random testing. This approach helps maintain rigorous safety protocols across the transportation sector.
Operators abiding by Parts 192, 193, or 195 must adhere to testing requirements outlined in 49 CFR Part 199, ensuring that all covered employees are periodically tested.
This is particularly important for pipeline safety and public welfare in all states, including Chapel Hill, NC.
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 constitutes a DOT Consortium (C/TPA) and who requires it?
A Consortium/Third Party Administrator (C/TPA) acts as a service provider, managing full or partial aspects of an employer's drug and alcohol testing initiatives. This includes managing random testing pools and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards specified under 49 CFR part 40.
Do random testing rates remain constant, or do they vary?
The rates for DOT random tests may fluctuate annually according to the percentage rates of positivity. Nevertheless, in our consortium, regardless of any changes, all fees related to DOT random testing are covered.
What steps follow after I am selected for a random test?
ADT will inform the company's Designated Employee Representative (DER) or the Owner Operator using email or phone. We provide the nearest test location and specific instructions. Upon receiving this notification, the chosen employee must directly proceed to the testing site.
What substances are included in a DOT drug test?
The DOT drug test includes a DOT 5-panel urine screening and a DOT breath alcohol analysis. It is imperative to ensure every test is performed using a Federal Custody and Control Form and a Federal Alcohol Testing Form.
Can assistance be rendered during a DOT audit or inspection?
Indeed, ADT is equipped to collate essential documents, such as pre-employment tests, confirmations of random pool participation, supervisor training credentials, development of DOT policies, and MIS reports.
How frequently is it possible to refresh the employee pool?
We endorse employee pool updates on a quarterly basis. Employers can opt to include or exclude covered employees ahead of any selection cycle.
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