A DOT physical examination is a detailed health check mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This test confirms that drivers have the physical, mental, and emotional capability to safely manage large vehicles on public highways. Conducted by a certified medical examiner (CME) listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), passing the examination grants drivers a DOT medical certificate, also known as a Medical Examiner's Certificate or DOT medical card, necessary to uphold a valid CDL license as per FMCSA standards. If another DOT agency regulates you and you require guidance on which DOT physical you need, 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
It is essential for employers governed by 49 CFR 382.305 to uphold a compliant random testing program. Specifically, owner-operators must be part of a consortium pool consisting of two or more covered employees.
This requirement also extends to every region, including Washington, NC, ensuring a standardized approach to maintaining transportation safety across states.
USCG: United States Coast Guard (now a component of Homeland Security)
According to 46 CFR Part 16.230, marine employers must implement random drug testing programs for crewmembers with safety-sensitive responsibilities. This requirement extends to maritime operations in Washington, NC, further safeguarding the nation's waterways. The standards include:
FAA: Federal Aviation Administration
In Washington, NC, employers following 14 CFR Part 120 must incorporate all safety-sensitive duties within their frameworks.
Railroad companies are required to devise and maintain an FRA-approved random testing plan according to 49 CFR 219.601-219.609. These regulations pertain to the maintenance of railway safety and operational standards, with Washington, NC fully implementing these federal mandates to ensure railroad integrity and safety within the state.
| 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 required to make use of a scientifically valid selection methodology within their random testing procedures. This process is crucial to ensure fair and unbiased testing of employees, particularly in metropolitan areas like the Washington, NC, where public transit systems form the backbone of daily commuting and require consistent safety checks.
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) holds operators subject to Parts 192, 193, or 195 accountable for conducting mandatory drug and alcohol testing of covered employees. Adhering to 49 CFR Part 199 testing regulations is imperative for statewide compliance, including within Washington, 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 is a DOT Consortium (c/TPA) and who needs it?
A consortium c/TPA oversees aspects of an employer's drug and alcohol testing, involving random testing pools and ensuring adherence to 49 CFR part 40.
Are random testing percentages constant, or do they vary?
DOT random testing percentages can fluctuate annually based on positivity rates. Our consortium covers all DOT random testing fees regardless of the rate changes.
What happens when I am selected for a random test?
ADT will contact the DER or Owner Operator via email/phone with details about the nearest testing center and instructions. The chosen employee must proceed to the site promptly upon notification.
What drugs are tested on a DOT drug test?
A DOT drug test includes a DOT 5-panel urine screen and a DOT breath alcohol test. It's imperative that all tests use a Federal CCF and a Federal Alcohol Testing Form.
Can you assist during a DOT audit or inspection?
Yes, ADT can assist by organizing necessary documents such as pre-employment tests, proof of random pool enrollment, supervisor training certificates, policy development, and MIS reports.
How frequently can I update my employee pool?
Employee lists are verified quarterly. Employers can add or remove covered employees at any time before selection dates.
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