May 12, 2021

What Is a Non-DOT Drug Test

If you’re a truck driver or the manager of one, you likely already know what a DOT drug test is—a drug test required by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for CDL truck drivers and other employees within the transportation industry. 

That's why most trucking companies find it more convenient and practical to be part of a Consortium/Third-Party Administrators (C/TPAs) like Labworks USA to manage all, or part, of an employer's DOT drug and alcohol testing program. We perform tasks as agreed to by the employer to assist in implementing the drug and alcohol testing program and to help keep the employer compliant with the DOT/FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Testing rules and regulations. We as a DOT Consortium can help you.

But what is a non-DOT drug test, and what do members of the trucking industry need to know about them? Read on to learn how non-DOT drug tests differ from DOT drug tests and more.

What Is a Non-DOT Drug Test?

The DOT requires truck drivers to complete a five-panel drug test for each of these six drug testing situations: pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up. A non-DOT drug test is any drug test required by an employer outside of those instances required by the DOT. Each employer decides the frequency, reason for testing, and type of test given, as well as the individuals they will test in their non-DOT drug testing. Any drug test outside of the transportation industry would also fall into the non-DOT drug test category.

What Drugs Are Tested for in a Non-DOT Drug Test?

All DOT drug tests test for five types of drugs: marijuana (THC), cocaine, opiates, amphetamines or methamphetamines, and phencyclidine (PCP). In a non-DOT drug test, it’s up to the employer which drugs are tested for. An employer may require another five-panel drug test or a different kind. In many cases, employers issue 10-panel or 12-panel drug tests that test for all the same drugs as a five-panel test, plus additional drugs like benzodiazepines, methadone, barbiturates, propoxyphene, and quaaludes.

For your reference, here's a list of DOT Consortium services we offer at Labworks USA with respective rates.

Are Non-DOT Drug Tests Required for Truck Drivers?

Non-DOT drug tests are not required by the DOT but are allowed to be given at an employer’s discretion. If an employer wants to give additional, non-DOT drug tests, they should outline their testing policy thoroughly for employees to avoid any surprises or legal issues. Although non-DOT drug tests are not required by the DOT, truck drivers should comply with the drug testing expectations of their employees.

As an employer, knowing what a non-DOT drug test is and how it differs from a DOT drug test will help you organize your drug testing program for your employees. Feel free to administer non-DOT drug tests as needed, but remember that remaining DOT compliant should be your priority in your drug testing program. In matters of DOT compliance, Labworks USA is here for you. Consider drug and alcohol consortium enrollment as your solution to remaining DOT compliant—we can help you manage any required drug tests, so you can have more time to manage the rest of your business.

If you are looking for more information about drug and alcohol testing as a truck driver, visit LabWorks USA. Our DOT Consortium's friendly team will be more than happy to discuss any concerns you may have and work with you to ensure you are always fully compliant specially with random DOT drug and alcohol testing pre-employment testing. Moreover, if you need help with FMCSA Clearinghouse registration, we can further support you.

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