Drug Screening: Why is it Important?

Why Driver Drug Screening is Important?

Generally, all CDL drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles subject to the CDL requirements on public roads in the U.S. are performing safety-sensitive functions are subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing. This includes all full-time, part-time, intermittent, backup and international drivers. DOT truck drivers must undergo a drug screening test prior to their employment. This is to be done once per year, after any accident, and if there is a suspicion that a driver is taking drugs. Also, CDL drivers must be randomly tested throughout the year.

DOT drug tests require laboratory testing for the following five classes of drugs:
Marijuana
Cocaine
Opiates – opium and codeine derivatives
Amphetamines and methamphetamines
Phencyclidine – PCP

DOT alcohol tests identify alcohol concentration of 0.02 and greater.

Effective January 1, 2018, CDL drivers will be tested for four semi-synthetic opioids (i.e., hydrocodone, oxycodone, hydromorphone, oxymorphone). Some common names for these semi-synthetic opioids include OxyContin®, Percodan®, Percocet®, Vicodin®, Lortab®, Norco®, Dilaudid®, Exalgo®. In addition, they will no longer be tested for MDEA.

When drivers take drugs, their motor skills suffer and their reaction times are severely hampered. This can be dangerous and lead to accidents. Proper Drug screening ensures that a company has healthy drivers on the road.

MVRcheck is integrated with over 15,000 lab locations across the USA to ensure that your drivers can take their tests.