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
In Pierre, SD and beyond, employers falling under 49 CFR 382.305 are mandated to operate a compliant random program. Owner-operators need to be part of a consortium with at least two participating employees.
The United States Coast Guard (USCG), now operating under the Department of Homeland Security, mandates that marine employers conduct random drug tests in accordance with 46 CFR Part 16.230. This is crucial for safety-sensitive crewmembers and is enforced across states including Pierre, SD.
FAA- Federal Aviation Administration
Under 14 CFR Part 120, employers must include comprehensive drug and alcohol testing programs that cover all safety-sensitive functions. In Pierre, SD, where aviation plays a vital role in transportation, maintaining these standards is critical for ensuring the safety and efficiency of flights in unique and challenging conditions.
FRA and Pierre, SD
In Pierre, SD and beyond, railroads are mandated to submit and implement a random testing strategy approved by the FRA under 49 CFR 219.601-219.609. These measures are central to maintaining safety in the rail industry.
| Employee Category | Drugs | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Service | 25% | 10% |
| Maintenance of Way / Roadway Workers | 25% | 10% |
| Mechanical | 50% | 25% |
Under the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) guidelines, transit employers in Pierre, SD, guided by 49 CFR Part 655, are required to implement a scientifically sound method for selecting employees for drug and alcohol testing. This ensures all safety-sensitive workers are reliably screened to uphold public transport safety standards.
Operators bound by Parts 192, 193, or 195 are obligated to conduct testing for covered employees per 49 CFR Part 199. This applies to pipeline operators in Pierre, SD, contributing to the safe operation of the state's extensive pipeline network for energy transportation.
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 is a service agent responsible for managing parts or all of an employer's drug and alcohol testing program, which includes random testing pools and compliance tasks as per 49 CFR part 40.
Are random testing percentages always the same or do they change?
Answer: DOT random testing rates might vary each year based on the positivity rate. However, in our consortium, no matter the random testing rate, all DOT random testing fees are encompassed.
What happens when I am selected for a random test?
Answer: ADT will inform the company DER or Owner Operator through email or phone with the nearest test location and necessary instructions. Once notified, the selected employee must proceed to the testing center immediately.
What drugs are tested on a DOT drug test?
Answer: A DOT drug test includes a DOT 5-panel urine test and a DOT breath alcohol test, which are always conducted on a Federal CCF and Federal Alcohol Testing Form.
Can you help during a DOT audit or inspection?
Answer: Yes, ADT can organize the required documentation, such as pre-employment tests, proof of random pool enrollment, supervisor training certificates, DOT policy development, and MIS reports.
How often can I update my employee pool?
Answer: Employee roster updates are confirmed every quarter. Employers have the possibility to add or remove covered employees up until the selection dates.
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