Texas · DOT Return to Duty

Return to Duty
Texas

After a DOT drug or alcohol violation, Texas 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 Texas

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.

Texas's CDL workforce: With freight moving along I-35, I-10, I-45, I-20 and I-30 and the I-35 NAFTA corridor, the Ports of Houston and Laredo, and the nation’s largest network of truck freight anchoring the state's logistics economy, Texas's energy, logistics, construction, and manufacturing sector depends on drivers getting back to compliant, safety-sensitive duty quickly. Texas CDL drivers submit their Medical Examiner’s Certificate to the DPS/DMV to stay certified.

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 Texas.

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 Texas 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 — Texas

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

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 Texas 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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