The DOT SAP Process….

Safety is the first priority of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). To ensure that transportation providers employ workers who are 100% drug and alcohol free, the DOT developed regulations for a Alcohol and Drug Testing Program and created the position of Substance Abuse Professionals (SAPs) to assist those who are identified as having a problem with drugs and/or alcohol.

The six (6) Operating Administrations under DOT required to follow testing regulations under 49 CRF Part 40 include:

  • FMCSA - Federal Motor Carrier Administration

  • FRA - Federal Railroad Administration

  • FAA - Federal Aviation Administration

  • FTA - Federal Transit Administration

  • USCG - U.S. Coast Guard

  • PHMSA - Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

The SAP process consists of the following:

An initial evaluation  and recommendation and the follow up evaluation:

  • Failed Drug Test

    • If you are covered by the DOT and have violated a Federal DOT drug or alcohol regulation as a result of a urine test positive for drugs, if you refused a test, or were not able to provide a specimen in a timely manner or you failed to take a test, then you must be re­moved from all safety-sensitive duties and contact a SAP for an evaluation.

    • Why do I need a SAP: To meet the return to work requirements of the Department of transportation, you must be evaluated, by a SAP, complete a remedial intervention or education program recommended by the SAP before you can be released to return to a safety sensitive job.

    • To be in compliance with DOT guidelines only a SAP and not just any drug and alcohol counselor can evaluate you in this situation.

  • Initial Evaluation & Recommendation includes initial 1-hour in-person or telehealth evaluation, connections for initial enrollment in substance use programs, OR education (or both) and required case management to support recommendations (including referrals).

  • Follow Up Evaluations typically include a 45 minute session. Both in-person and virtual evaluations are available depending on client preference and scheduling needs.

  • An initial evaluation report is sent to the employer.

  • The follow-up evaluation is conducted to determine successful compliance and completion of the recommended treatment. A “Notice of Compliance,” or a “Notice of Noncompliance,” is sent to the employer. If the employee has successfully completed the treatment, the “Notice of Compliance” will include a schedule for follow-up drug testing and any recommendations for aftercare.

  • SAP Evaluation services are not covered by insurance. Please check with your EAP, HR department or Union to see if the SAP evaluation services are covered. Otherwise, the client must pay out-of-pocket.

  • Completing the SAP Evaluation process does not guarantee your return to work, or with your previous or current employer.