DOT & PUC Policy Book

The DOT regulations require that you develop or adapt a written policy on controlled substances use and alcohol misuse in the workplace and that the policy be provided to every driver. This policy applies to every person whose position requires the possession of a commercial driver’s license (CDL); every employee performing a “safety-sensitive function” and any person applying for such positions.

DOT compliance

Employee Handbook

Employers are required to provide educational materials for drivers and training for supervisors prior to the start of testing (§382.601 and §382.603, respectively). Topics may include the effects of drug & alcohol use, company testing policies, DOT testing regulations and the consequences of a positive test. Materials may also contain information on how employees can get in touch with their Employee Assistance Programs and community service hot- lines.

Supervisor Training/Reasonable Suspicion Book

Employers must provide training to all persons who supervise drivers subject to the regulations, in accordance with §382.603.
The purpose of this training is to enable supervisors to determine whether reasonable suspicion exists to require a driver to undergo testing described in §382.307. It must include at least 60 minutes on alcohol misuse and 60 minutes on controlled substances use (120 minutes total). The training may consist of formal classroom training, videos, written materials, online training, or other appropriate methods. Interactive training is encouraged, as experience has shown it is more effective than passive methods.

Driver Supervisors

Driver supervisors must receive additional training on the physical, behavioral, and performance indicators of controlled substances use or alcohol misuse to determine when drivers must be tested under reasonable suspicion (§382.603). “Education and Training,” provides greater detail on the training and information requirements for employees and supervisors.

Education for Compliance with DOT/FAA

  • Conduct and document initial training for employees and their supervisors about drug use.
  • Supervisors who will make reasonable cause/suspicion testing determinations must complete initial training.
  • FAA Supervisors who make reasonable cause drug testing determinations must receive both initial and recurrent training.