Blog Post One

As a SAP in Connecticut and Massachusetts, I see this often. If a driver has had more than one violation, this will show up on “Violation History” of the driver’s DOT Clearinghouse dashboard. Many new drivers are not familiar with their dashboard (until a violation occurs).   The driver’s dashboard will show the following:

1) Date a violation was put on the Clearinghouse

2) Reason for a test

3) Who reported it to the Clearinghouse: (for a drug test, the name of the MRO (Medical Review Officer); for an alcohol test or refusal, the name of whoever entered the information on behalf of the employer.)

I always encourage my new clients to spend some time getting familiar with their Clearinghouse dashboard.  This will help them during the SAP process and afterwards when they are required to undergo their random drug screens.

Blog Post Two

Understanding the DOT SAP Follow-Up Testing Requirements in CT & MA

If you’re a safety-sensitive employee returning to work after a DOT drug or alcohol violation in Connecticut or Massachusetts, you’re likely aware that working with a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) is a required step in the return-to-duty process. But many don’t realize that your journey doesn’t end with compliance—a customized follow-up testing plan is also mandatory.

As your SAP, it is my responsibility to design and oversee a follow-up testing plan that ensures continued compliance and supports long-term recovery. This plan is tailored to your situation and must include a minimum of six unannounced follow-up tests within the first 12 months of your return to safety-sensitive duties, as required by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) under 49 CFR Part 40.

What to Expect in Your Follow-Up Testing Plan

• At least six unannounced tests within the first year of your return to duty.

• Testing may be scheduled at any time, and you will not be notified in advance.

• Your SAP determines the frequency, timing, and substances to be tested, based on your initial evaluation and any indication of substance use patterns.

If poly-substance use was identified during your evaluation, your follow-up testing plan will reflect this. For example:

• If your violation involved alcohol, your follow-up tests may include drug screening as well.

• If your violation was drug-related, alcohol testing will also be included to monitor for cross-addiction risk.

How Long Does DOT Follow-Up Testing Last?

Follow-up testing can last up to 60 months (5 years). However, I may terminate the follow-up testing plan any time after the first 12 months, provided all SAP-recommended tests up to that point have been completed and there are no compliance concerns.

Important: Follow-up testing is separate from and in addition to your employer’s DOT random testing program. You are still subject to random drug and alcohol testing even while under the SAP's follow-up plan.

Why This Matters

The follow-up testing phase is essential for ensuring public safety, maintaining DOT compliance, and helping you build confidence and accountability as you return to work. At Compass Recovery & Counseling, we provide DOT-qualified SAP evaluations and follow-up testing plans that are compliant, confidential, and tailored to your specific needs—serving clients throughout Connecticut (CT) and Massachusetts (MA).

Need Help with a DOT SAP Evaluation or Follow-Up Plan?
If you're navigating a DOT violation or need assistance with your return-to-duty process in CT or MA, contact us today. We're here to help you meet your DOT requirements and get back to work with confidence.