A DOT physical is an in-depth medical evaluation required for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators by the Department of Transportation (DOT). This assessment guarantees that professional drivers are fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to handle large vehicles on public highways safely. Certified medical examiners (CMEs) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) conduct the DOT physical. Successfully passing the evaluation enables drivers to acquire a DOT medical certificate, also known as a DOT medical card, necessary to uphold a valid CDL license as per FMCSA regulations. If you're governed by a different DOT entity and need help figuring out which DOT physical is needed, you can 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
In accordance with 49 CFR 382.305, employers must uphold a compliant random program. Specifically, owner-operators are required to be part of a consortium pool that includes at least two covered employees. This regulation also applies in Elkin, NC, where compliance with DOT standards ensures transportation safety.
USCG: United States Coast Guard (now under homeland security)
FAA- Federal Aviation Administration
Under 14 CFR Part 120, employers must ensure that all safety-sensitive job functions are included, an imperative also applicable in Elkin, NC.
In the state of Elkin, NC, 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% |
Employers in Elkin, NC governed under 49 CFR Part 655 must undertake employee selections using a scientifically valid method to ensure regulatory adherence.
Operators, including those in Elkin, NC, subject to Parts 192, 193, or 195, are mandated to conduct testing of covered employees in accordance with 49 CFR Part 199.
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 facilitates an employer's drug and alcohol testing programs, managing elements such as random testing pools and ensuring compliance under 49 CFR part 40.
Are random testing percentages always the same or do they change?
Answer: While DOT random testing rates can vary annually depending on positivity rates, our consortium absorbs all DOT random testing fees regardless of rate changes.
What happens when I am selected for a random test?
Answer: ADT will communicate with the company's DER or Owner Operator via email or phone, guiding them to the nearest testing location with necessary instructions. Selected employees must promptly visit the testing center upon notification.
What drugs are tested on a DOT drug test?
Answer: A DOT drug test involves a DOT 5-panel urine screen and a DOT breath alcohol test, all to be conducted using a Federal CCF and Federal Alcohol Testing Form.
Can you help during a DOT audit or inspection?
Answer: Absolutely, ADT can compile all required documents, including pre-employment tests, evidence of random pool participation, supervisor training certificates, DOT policy creation, and MIS reports.
How often can I update my employee pool?
Answer: Employee roster updates are verified on a quarterly basis. Employers are free to add or remove covered employees before selection periods.
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