Choose the stage you have actually reached
Select the statement that best matches your current position. The result should point you to the next regulatory step, not decide whether you are eligible to work or whether a particular test, treatment program or SAP requirement has been completed.
If you have a DOT drug or alcohol violation and have not yet been evaluated by a qualified SAP, the first return-to-duty step is the SAP evaluation. DOT regulations prohibit a covered employee from returning to DOT safety-sensitive duties until the applicable return-to-duty requirements have been completed. See 49 CFR § 40.285.
After the initial SAP evaluation
The SAP determines what education and/or treatment is appropriate for the individual after the initial evaluation. There is no universal course or fixed number of sessions. DOT requires the recommendation to be based on the employee's individual evaluation. Read more about SAP education and treatment.
After completing what the SAP requires, the next step is a follow-up evaluation with the SAP. The SAP then determines whether you have demonstrated successful compliance with the recommendations. See 49 CFR § 40.301.
Eligible for an RTD test does not mean returned to duty
If the SAP determines that you successfully complied, the SAP can make you eligible for return-to-duty testing. That determination is not a negative RTD test and does not itself authorize a return to safety-sensitive work.
The required RTD drug test must produce a negative result, or an alcohol RTD test must meet the applicable result requirement, before the employer can return an employee to safety-sensitive functions. The employer also decides whether to return the employee to work. See return-to-duty testing and 49 CFR § 40.305.
Follow-up testing starts after return to safety-sensitive duty
A SAP who finds successful compliance establishes a follow-up testing plan. DOT requires at least six unannounced follow-up tests during the first 12 months after the employee returns to safety-sensitive duties, and testing can extend for as long as 60 months. These tests are separate from random testing. The actual schedule is confidential and should not be disclosed to the employee. See 49 CFR § 40.307.
If you are unsure whether you are at the evaluation, compliance, RTD testing or follow-up stage, review the complete return-to-duty process or find a listed SAP provider.