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.

Once you meet with one of our counselors via video for your initial evaluation, they will guide you in assigning your case to them in the FMCSA. This is a required step that allows our counselor to provide key updates about your case in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.

To assign your case to a DrugEval.com SAP in the FMCSA Clearinghouse, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log in to your Clearinghouse account

• Log in to your Clearinghouse account using your username and password. If you don’t have an account yet, you’ll need to create one.

Step 2: Navigate to the ‘My Dashboard’ section

• Once logged in, navigate to the ‘My Dashboard’ section of the Clearinghouse. This section contains options for managing your account and cases.

Step 3: Select ‘Assign a Case’

• Look for the option to ‘Assign a Case’ or ‘Initiate an Assignment’ within the ‘My Dashboard’ section. Click on this option to proceed.

Step 4: Enter driver information

• Enter the required information about the driver whose case you want to assign to a SAP. This may include the driver’s CDL number, name, and date of birth.

Step 5: Choose a SAP

• Once the driver’s information is entered, you’ll be prompted to select the name of the DrugEval.com SAP from the list of counselors in the Clearinghouse database.

Step 6: Monitor the status

• Keep track of the assignment’s status through your Clearinghouse account. You’ll receive notifications and updates as the SAP progresses through the evaluation process.

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 providers of classes/education offer both in-person and online options, so you can choose what is most convenient for you. Additionally, many providers of classes/education offer self-paced learning options, allowing you to complete the classes on your own schedule.

Most treatment providers prefer in-person treatment. However, some offer hybrid models that combine in-person and telehealth (virtual) sessions. The availability of these options will depend on the providers in your area.

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 (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.

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.

We’re confident in the quality of our evaluation reports. If a report is rejected by the requesting party, we offer a 100% refund. Limitations and conditions apply; check our Refund Policy page for more information.

We now offer flexible “Buy Now, Pay Later” options! Choose from interest-free plans or monthly payments with terms ranging from 6 to 12 months at varying interest rates. Click here to start your DOT SAP evaluation with this convenient payment option.

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.