A DOT physical is an all-encompassing health assessment mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. It confirms that professional drivers possess the physical, mental, and emotional fitness necessary to operate large vehicles safely on public highways. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing this exam grants drivers a DOT medical certificate (Medical Examiners Certificate, also known as a DOT medical card), essential for retaining a valid CDL license under FMCSA rules. If adherence to another DOT agency is required, and you need guidance on the appropriate DOT physical, 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 Matthews, NC 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.
USCG: United States Coast Guard (now under Homeland Security)
Marine employers, notably those in Matthews, NC, under 46 CFR Part 16.230, must perform random drug tests for safety-sensitive crewmembers aboard. Compliance with these regulations is essential to maintaining marine safety standards.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversees the safety and regulation of the airspace system, including Matthews, NC, by enforcing compliance with 14 CFR Part 120.
All employers overseeing safety-sensitive operations must adhere to stringent testing protocols to ensure both passenger and crew safety.
Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
Railroads operating in Matthews, NC are mandated to follow and submit an FRA-approved random testing plan in compliance with 49 CFR 219.601-219.609. Ensuring adherence to these regulations is vital for maintaining the safety and integrity of railroad operations throughout the state.
| Employee Category | Drugs | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Service | 25% | 10% |
| Maintenance of Way / Roadway Workers | 25% | 10% |
| Mechanical | 50% | 25% |
FTA: Federal Transit Administration in Matthews, NC
Employers under the jurisdiction of 49 CFR Part 655 in Matthews, NC are mandated to employ a scientifically valid method for selecting random testing candidates, thereby maintaining the integrity and compliance of their transit operations.
Operators governed by Parts 192, 193, or 195 must test their employees according to regulations stipulated in 49 CFR Part 199. Matthews, NC ensures strict adherence to these measures to safeguard pipeline safety standards.
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 that manages some or all of an employer's drug and alcohol testing program, covering the management of random testing pools and ensuring compliance as outlined in 49 CFR part 40.
Are random testing percentages always the same or do they change?
Answer: DOT random testing rates can vary annually depending on the positivity rate; however, within our consortium, all random testing fees are inclusive, regardless of the rate.
What happens when I am selected for a random test?
Answer: ADT will contact the designated employer representative (DER) or Owner Operator via email or phone to provide the nearest testing location and testing instructions. The notified employee must promptly head to the specified testing site upon notification.
What drugs are tested on a DOT drug test?
Answer: A DOT drug test assesses a DOT 5-panel urine sample and a DOT breath alcohol test. Ensure that all tests utilize a Federal Custody and Control Form (CCF) and Federal Alcohol Testing Form.
Can you help during a DOT audit or inspection?
Answer: Yes, ADT is equipped to assist during audits or inspections by organizing essential documentation, such as pre-employment testing records, evidence of random pool enrollment, supervisor training certifications, DOT policy creation, and MIS reports.
How often can I update my employee pool?
Answer: We update employee rosters quarterly, allowing employers to add or remove covered employees anytime before selection dates.
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