Kentucky · DOT Return to Duty

Return to Duty
Kentucky

After a DOT drug or alcohol violation, Kentucky drivers must complete a SAP evaluation, a negative return-to-duty test, and a follow-up testing plan before resuming safety-sensitive duties. WorkOccMed coordinates the whole process.

Getting Back on the Road in Kentucky

A DOT drug or alcohol violation — including a positive test, refusal, or FMCSA Clearinghouse flag — prohibits a CDL driver from performing safety-sensitive functions until the full return-to-duty process is complete.

Kentucky's CDL workforce: With freight moving along I-65, I-64, I-75 and I-24 and the UPS Worldport air hub in Louisville and major automotive plants anchoring the state's logistics economy, Kentucky's logistics, automotive, bourbon, and manufacturing sector depends on drivers getting back to compliant, safety-sensitive duty quickly. Kentucky’s logistics economy — anchored by Louisville — is a major employer of CDL drivers.

Five Steps to Return to Duty

1

SAP Evaluation

A Substance Abuse Professional evaluates the driver and recommends education or treatment.

2

Education / Treatment

The driver completes the SAP's recommended program.

3

Follow-Up SAP Evaluation

The SAP confirms compliance and clears the driver for return-to-duty testing.

4

Return-to-Duty Test

A negative, directly-observed test at a certified site near the driver in Kentucky.

5

Follow-Up Testing Plan

A minimum of 6 unannounced tests over the next 12 months, as set by the SAP.

Testing Sites Near Major Kentucky Cities

Return-to-duty and follow-up tests can be completed at any certified site in our network, including locations near:

Return to Duty Questions — Kentucky

How long does the return-to-duty process take in Kentucky?

It varies by driver — the SAP's recommended education or treatment sets the pace. Once cleared, the return-to-duty test itself can typically be scheduled same-day at a certified Kentucky site.

Who reports the return-to-duty test to the Clearinghouse?

WorkOccMed reports return-to-duty and follow-up test results to the FMCSA Clearinghouse on your behalf as your TPA.

Does WorkOccMed provide the SAP evaluation itself?

We coordinate with SAPs and manage the paperwork, records release, and testing logistics; the SAP evaluation itself is performed by a qualified, independent Substance Abuse Professional.

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