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RETURN-TO-DUTY PROCESS

HOW THE FMCSA RETURN-TO-DUTY PROCESS WORKS

Before you begin:
✔ CDL/CLP holders must complete the process with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) before working with our team.
✔ You must have a checkmark in Steps 1-4 in the FMCSA Clearinghouse before proceeding.
✔ We are NOT a SAP counseling service. We only assist with the Return-to-Duty drug test process.

FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO COMPLETE YOUR RETURN-TO-DUTY PROCESS

STEP 1

SUBMIT YOUR RETURN-TO-DUTY CONSENT FORM

STEP 2

SELECT YOUR PAYMENT OPTION

All sales are FINAL. Please do not submit payment until you have a checkmark in steps 1-4 in the Clearinghouse. 

Option 1: 

Option 2 – Payment Plan:

Final payment must be completed before scheduling your drug test.
We are not a SAP service. We only handle the Return-to-Duty drug testing process (Step 5).

STEP 3

SAP COMPLETION VERIFICATION

  • After payment, we will contact your SAP provider to obtain the necessary completion paperwork.
  • Additional Testing Fees: If your SAP requires a Breath Alcohol RTD test, there is an extra fee of $115.

STEP 4

FMCSA CLEARINGHOUSE  WALK-THRU

Within 2-3 hours, a team member will call you from (832) 572-5277 to walk you through the process of selecting us as your CTPA (Consortium Third-Party Administrator) in the Clearinghouse.
You will need:
✔ A separate email address (not already registered in the Clearinghouse)
✔ To purchase a Query Plan ($2.50 in the Clearinghouse)

STEP 5

FMCSA RETURN-TO-DUTY DRUG TEST

  • We will schedule your Return-to-Duty drug test at a certified FMCSA-approved lab in your area.

  • Observed Testing: The test will be supervised by a person of the same sex, as per DOT regulations.

  • Results: 3-5 business days for test results.

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  • You will not be scheduled for a drug test until your balance is paid in full.

STEP 6

FMCSA CLEARINGHOUSE UPDATE & STATUS CHANGE

  • We will update the FMCSA Clearinghouse with your negative drug test results.

  • Your status will change from "Prohibited" to "Not Prohibited" in the Clearinghouse.

  • We keep your records on file so that when you find a new truck driving job, we will send the necessary paperwork to your new employer to begin the Follow-Up Testing Plan.

WHAT IS THE FMCSA RETURN-TO-DUTY PROCESS?

The FMCSA Return-to-Duty (RTD) process is a federal requirement for CDL drivers who have failed or refused a DOT drug or alcohol test. Under FMCSA Clearinghouse regulations, drivers in prohibited status must complete the RTD process before they can legally operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) again.

The Return-to-Duty process involves:


✔ Evaluation by a DOT-approved Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)
✔ Completing required education/treatment programs
✔ Undergoing an observed FMCSA Return-to-Duty drug test
✔ FMCSA Clearinghouse status update to remove prohibited status

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💡 As a CTPA (Consortium Third-Party Administrator), we guide CDL drivers through Step 5 of the process—ensuring compliance with FMCSA regulations and getting them back on the road legally.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER STEP 6?

Once your FMCSA Return-to-Duty (RTD) drug test results are updated in the FMCSA Clearinghouse, you are legally eligible to return to work. However, additional steps may be required depending on your status:

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✔ CDL License Downgrade: If your CDL was downgraded to a standard license, you must visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to reinstate it. The FMCSA does not automatically restore your CDL after completing the Return-to-Duty process.


✔ Follow-Up Testing Plan: Under FMCSA regulations, CDL drivers must complete a Follow-Up Testing Plan, which is managed by their new employer while performing safety-sensitive functions.


✔ Eligible Safety-Sensitive Industries: Drivers who complete the Return-to-Duty process may work in trucking, pipeline, transit, railroad, or Coast Guard positions.

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🚨 We DO NOT conduct or manage the Follow-Up Testing Plan. This must be coordinated by your employer as per FMCSA Clearinghouse regulations.

ADDITIONAL WARNINGS FOR CDL DRIVERS

🚫 Failed Drug Test: If you fail your Return-to-Duty drug test, you must restart the entire FMCSA Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) process before you can test again.


🧪 Preliminary Drug Screen: If you are unsure about passing, text (832) 572-5277 to request a preliminary drug test before scheduling your official FMCSA Return-to-Duty test.


💰 No Refund Policy: All sales are final. No refunds, cancellations, or transfers will be permitted once payment has been submitted.

LEARN ABOUT THE RTD PROCESS

Prefer a video explanation? Watch this short video to understand how to complete the FMCSA Return-to-Duty process.

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