A DOT SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) evaluation is a process mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for employees who have violated DOT drug and alcohol testing regulations. It involves an assessment by a qualified SAP to determine whether an individual is fit for duty following a substance abuse violation.

A virtual DOT SAP evaluation allows individuals to undergo the assessment process remotely, typically via video conferencing or telehealth platforms. This enables greater accessibility and convenience for those undergoing the evaluation.

The FMCSA Clearinghouse is a secure online database that serves as a central repository for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers’ drug and alcohol program records. It was established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to improve safety on the roads by providing employers, the FMCSA, State Driver Licensing Agencies (SDLAs), and other authorized users with real-time access to information about drug and alcohol program violations committed by CDL drivers.

First, book a session with our DOT SAP Counselor on the Start Now page. Choose either a Regular or Expedited DOT SAP Evaluation.

After booking, you’ll complete a questionnaire. At the end, you’ll receive step-by-step instructions on how to designate the SAP in the Clearinghouse. Our counselors can also guide you through this process.

If you need help, submit a support ticket, and we’ll assist you promptly.

We understand that returning to work is important to you, and we will work to facilitate this process within the boundaries set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) rules and regulations.

The time it takes to return to work after a DOT violation depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of the violation, recommendations from the initial evaluation, and your employment status. The return-to-duty process may involve either a recommendation for classes (the minimum requirement by the DOT) or treatment programs. Classes can range from 4 to 16 hours, while treatment programs may last several weeks or even months. Once classes or treatment are completed, you can take a return-to-duty test (substance screen), which must be directly observed and produce a negative result before you can resume safety-sensitive duties.

The entire DOT evaluation and return to duty process includes:

1. Initial Evaluation: Conducted by a substance abuse professional (SAP).
2. Completing Recommendations: Based on the initial evaluation, which may include education classes or treatment.
3. Follow-up Evaluation: To assess progress and readiness.

After completing these steps, you can be designated as retest eligible and take the DOT retest. This retest must be ordered by an employer or potential employer. Upon passing the retest, you can return to work. Once you’re back at work, you’ll be required to complete follow-up drug tests.

Whether you need classes or treatment following a drug and alcohol evaluation depends on various factors, like what the evaluation reveals and what the evaluator suggests. If the evaluation says you have a substance abuse problem or might develop one, the evaluator might suggest joining classes, therapy, or a treatment program. But if the evaluator determines you don’t show signs of a substance abuse problem and aren’t likely to develop one, they’ll recommend suitable education or classes, following DOT rules. According to DOT rules, at the very least, you must go through an educational intervention after a violation.

Many education providers offer both in-person and online classes, so you can choose the option that works best for you. Some also offer self-paced courses, allowing you to complete them on your own schedule.

Most treatment providers prefer in-person sessions, but some offer hybrid models that include both in-person and virtual (telehealth) appointments. The options available will vary depending on what’s offered in your area.

If you complete the DOT SAP process with us, our SAP counselor will provide a referral to an appropriate education or treatment provider to help you meet DOT requirements. You’ll receive clear guidance on where to go and what steps to take after your initial evaluation.

Yes, our counselor will assist you in finding a provider to complete your recommendation. Additionally, our counselors are available via text and email to communicate with you openly until your case is fully resolved.

Yes, the cost of completing the recommendation following the initial evaluation (which may include classes or treatment) will be an additional out-of-pocket expense. You will need to pay a separate provider for these services. According to DOT rules and regulations, we cannot benefit financially from the recommendations we make. Therefore, you must use a different provider to complete the recommended classes or treatment.

Additionally, there may be costs associated with return-to-duty and follow-up testing. However, whether you are required to pay these testing fees to comply with DOT policy will depend on your employer’s workplace policies.

The cost of a DOT SAP evaluation reflects the specialized expertise and thorough process required to meet Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. Our Substance Abuse Professionals (SAPs) complete extensive training to ensure that assessments align with DOT guidelines, prioritizing safety and compliance. This fee covers a full evaluation, personalized recommendations, and a structured return-to-duty plan—all designed to support safety-sensitive employees in meeting federal requirements.

While the initial cost may seem high, it provides substantial value by offering expert guidance, safeguarding public safety, and assisting employees in returning to their roles legally and responsibly. Our DOT SAP fees cover not only the initial and follow-up evaluations, but also the letters required for return-to-duty support, updates to the Clearinghouse (for commercial drivers), and additional support after returning to work, such as sending compliance letters when you change jobs. This pricing reflects the comprehensive support needed to achieve and maintain compliance with DOT standards.

Some of our evaluations come with a money-back guarantee, but DOT SAP evaluations are non-refundable. For details, visit our Refund Policy page.

We now offer Buy Now, Pay Later options for both regular and expedited DOT SAP Evaluations. When booking, simply select Klarna or Affirm as the payment method and choose the payment plan you qualify for. Visit the Start Now page to book your appointment.

We currently do not accept insurance for our evaluation services. To make our services affordable and accessible, we provide transparent, affordable pricing. Additionally, we offer several buy now, pay later payment options for our Expedited DOT SAP evaluation.