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| Confused about the new CDL drug testing requirements for prescription drugs, medical marijuana, CBD products, and saliva testing? Let’s untangle the latest updates and clarify the rules so CDL drivers remain in compliance! |
CDL Drug Testing for Prescription Drug Rules
Am I allowed to use prescribed controlled substances while on the job (performing safety-sensitive functions)?
DOT employees must not report for duty or remain on duty when using any controlled substance unless it is used according to the instructions of the prescribing doctor who must write that the driver is safe to be a commercial driver while taking the medication.
Does it matter if I have prescriptions for controlled substances from different physicians?
Yes. If you are being treated by more than one doctor, you must be able to show that at least one prescribing doctor has been informed of all prescribed medications (and OTC medicines) and has determined the usage is consistent with the safe performance of your duties.
Does tramadol show up on a DOT drug test?
Tramadol will not be detected on a typical 5 panel drug screening. However, it will show up on more advanced testing, typically detectable for up to 4 days after last use.
“Also, any anti-seizure medication used for the prevention of seizures is disqualifying.”
FMCSA
Updated Prescription Drug Policies Compared
Here’s a comparison of the key changes:
| Previous Procedure | Updated Procedure |
|---|---|
| Sample collected by a swab | Sample collected by a sponge |
| Processing time of 24 hours | Processing time of 12 hours |
| Specific containers required | Universal containers accepted |
What Are the Blood Pressure Requirements for CDL Drivers?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has specific guidelines regarding blood pressure for CMV (Commercial Motor Vehicle) drivers to be approved for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
| Blood Pressure Category | Blood Pressure Range | Certification Period |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Blood Pressure | BP < 140/90 | A CMV driver may be certified for 2 years. |
| Stage 1 Hypertension | BP 140-159/90-99 | Certification Period is 1 year. |
| Stage 2 Hypertension | BP 160-179/100-109 | Certification Period is 3 months as a one-time certification. If BP < 140/90, may receive 1-year certification. |
| Stage 3 Hypertension | BP Reading > 180/110 | Disqualified. If BP < 140/90, the driver can be certified at 6-month intervals. |
Can CDL Drivers Use CBD Products?
Does CBD oil show up on a drug test?
No. However, the labeling of many CBD products may be misleading because the products could contain higher levels of THC than what the product label states. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not currently certify the levels of THC in CBD products, so there is no Federal oversight to ensure that the labels are accurate.
Is CBD legal in Texas?
Yes, CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive product derived from cannabis, either marijuana or hemp. CBD, as long as it contains no more than 0.3% THC, is legal to possess and regulated to sell in Texas. CBD oil, CBD gummies, CBD cream, and CBD vape is illegal in Texas if it contains more than 0.3% THC.
“Positive drug tests account for 82% of the total violations reported in the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse since January 6, 2020. THC has been detected in almost half of all the drug tests reported.”
Medical Marijuana Notice
Since the use of CBD oil could lead to a positive drug test result, CDL drivers should exercise caution when considering whether to use CBD products.
“Any product, including “Cannabidiol” (CBD) products, with a concentration of more than 0.3% THC remains classified as marijuana, a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act.”
CBD Notice
Are CDL Drivers Subject to Saliva Drug Testing?
Can my employer decide if I am drug tested using saliva or urine sample?
Yes. On May 2, 2023, the Department of Transportation (DOT) published a new rule for DOT drug test requirements (88 FR 27596), which states the employee could be subject to either an oral fluid collection or a urine collection for any DOT-regulated test.
What is 49 CFR Part 40?
49 CFR Part 40 is a regulation issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) that sets policies and procedures for drug and alcohol testing of employees who perform safety-sensitive functions in industries regulated by the DOT.
“This additional saliva methodology for drug testing will give employers a choice that will help combat employee cheating on urine drug tests and provide a less intrusive means of achieving the safety goals of the program.”
DOT Part 40 Update
Can CDL Drivers Use Medical Marijuana?
Is using medical marijuana prescribed by a physician allowed under DOT regulations?
No. While some states may allow medical or recreational use of marijuana, federal laws and DOT regulations do not recognize any legitimate medical use of marijuana. Under DOT regulations, the use of marijuana is treated as the use of any other illicit drug, regardless of state laws.
Does Delta 8 show up on a drug test?
Yes, Delta-8 THC can show up on a drug test that screens for THC metabolites, as it is a form of THC. It’s important to note that most standard drug tests can’t differentiate between Delta-9 THC (the primary psychoactive component in marijuana) and Delta-8 THC, so using Delta-8 could result in a positive test for THC.
How long does marijuana stay in urine?
The duration for which weed stays in your system can vary depending on various factors, including the frequency of use, dosage, metabolism, and individual factors. However, on average, weed can be detected in urine for up to 30 days, in blood for up to 2 weeks, in saliva for up to 72 hours, and in hair for up to 90 days.
Are marijuana test strips accurate?
Yes, marijuana test strips can be accurate in detecting the presence of THC (the psychoactive compound in marijuana) in a sample. However, the accuracy may vary depending on the brand and quality of the test strip.
“The Department of Transportation’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulation – 49 CFR Part 40 – does not authorize medical marijuana under a state law to be a valid medical explanation for a transportation employee’s positive drug test result.”
Recreational Marijuana Notice
If you have questions about DOT regulations, contact the drug and alcohol abatement offices listed in the chart below. 🙋
| Department | Agency | Domain | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Department of Transportation | FAA | Aviation | 202-267-8842 | faa.gov |
| FMCSA | Motor Carrier | 202-366-2096 | fmcsa.dot.gov | |
| FTA | Public Transportation | 617-494-2395 | transit.dot.gov | |
| FRA | Railroads | 202-493-6313 | railroads.dot.gov | |
| PHMSA | Pipeline | 909-937-7232 | phmsa.dot.gov | |
| US Department of Homeland Security | USCG | Maritime | 202-372-1033 | homeport.uscg.mil |
You may also want to check out these related articles from Rainey Counseling Services👇
| If you failed a drug test and need to find a DOT qualified SAP near you, search SAPList using your local zip code or schedule a SAP evaluation online by clicking appointment or call 817-781-7235 to speak with a SAP counselor in Texas. |
