I have just received a DOT drug or alcohol violation
Begin with the event that put you into the return-to-duty process. Failed DOT drug test explains what follows a verified positive DOT drug test. DOT drug test refusal covers refusals, while DOT alcohol violations explains the important distinction between an alcohol concentration of 0.02 through 0.039 and a result of 0.04 or greater.
Under 49 CFR § 40.285, a covered employee who has committed a DOT drug or alcohol regulation violation cannot return to DOT safety-sensitive duties until the required SAP and return-to-duty process has been completed.
I need a SAP or need to understand the evaluation
Read what DOT-qualified SAP means before choosing a provider, or use the SAP finder to view currently listed providers by stated state coverage. The SAP evaluation guide explains the initial assessment, and online SAP evaluation covers the additional requirements for remote appointments.
The SAP determines education or treatment individually after evaluating the employee. DOT does not prescribe one standard course for every violation. See DOT's SAP guidance.
I am working through the Clearinghouse
FMCSA-regulated drivers can use the guides to SAP designation in the Clearinghouse, prohibited status and return-to-duty status. Drivers without a current employer should use the separate return-to-duty without an employer guide because FMCSA has specific rules for this situation.
For current account procedures and status information, use the FMCSA Clearinghouse Learning Center as the primary source.
I have completed the SAP requirements
Successful SAP compliance is an important stage, but it is not the same as completing an RTD test or being returned to work. Continue with return-to-duty drug testing, then read follow-up drug testing to understand what happens after a return to safety-sensitive duty.
If you are not sure which stage applies, use the return-to-duty next steps tool. For terminology, the DOT SAP glossary provides short definitions without requiring you to read the complete process again.