DOT SAP
Frequently Asked Questions
Failed a UA drug screen for work and need an evaluation, can I go to any licensed professional for an evaluation?
No. A DOT violation for alcohol or drugs requires you to get evaluated by a qualified SAP.
If I enter treatment on my own, will that resolve my work violation?
DOT regulation 49 C.F.R. 40 requires that you receive a qualified SAP evaluation, follow up with SAP recommendations, and have a follow-up evaluation with the same SAP, prior to being considered for re-entering into a safety-sensitive position. Entering treatment on your own will not permit you to return to safety-sensitive duties if the evaluation is not completed by a qualified SAP.
What is the cost for the SAP evaluation?
Contact EMDR 808 Pacific Counseling for current SAP prices. Payment for SAP evaluation is due at the first visit.
Will the SAP cost include Treatment or Education recommendations?
No. The fees for the treatment and education providers are not covered in the SAP cost.
Who pays for the cost of SAP services?
The person responsible for paying for the SAP services and recommendations is between the employer and the employee.
How long will this process take?
The initial SAP evaluation may take 1.5- 3.5 hours.
When I follow the recommendations, what happens next?
When your SAP conducts a follow-up evaluation and determines that you have complied with the recommendations, your SAP will send a report of compliance to your employer.
What if I just quit my job and apply to another company?
If you choose to work for a non-DOT employer, you do not have to complete the SAP process. However, if you choose to work for another DOT employer in the future, you need to complete the SAP then.
Will I find out in advance what the follow-up testing will be?
No. Neither your employer nor the SAP is permitted to share the testing plan with you. DOT requires that the follow-up testing schedule be confidential.
Who pays for these follow-up tests?
This is the employer’s decision. Some employers pay for the follow-up testing and others may have the employee be responsible for the cost of the tests consequentially for violating DOT’s rules.
What if I “forget” to list my previous employer on an application?
This is a federal offense to falsify information to obtain a DOT-regulated safety-sensitive job and you will be held responsible. You may be subject to fines and penalties.
If I don’t agree with SAP’s recommendation, can I get a second opinion?
DOT considers the SAP recommendation as final, and no one can change it. You must stay with the SAP you start an evaluation process with, you cannot seek another SAPs opinion once the process begins.
What happens if I test positive on a follow-up test?
If you test positive again, you must go through the entire SAP process again. Many employers terminate an employee for a second violation. If you have been terminated, and if you want to apply for a safety-sensitive job with another DOT employer, you must complete the SAP return-to-duty process.