FMCSA Reduces Drug Testing Requirement for 2016

By Michael Klazema | 12/23/2015

Effective January 1, 2016, carriers must now randomly drug test at least 25% of the average number of driver positions (instead of the 50% that was previously mandated).

The FMCSA chose to reduce the annual percentage rate because the positive rate for controlled substances random testing fell below 1.0% for 3 consecutive calendar years (2011-2013). This is subject to change at the FMCSA’s discretion.

Businesses are reminded that the 2016 alcohol test minimum remains unchanged at 10% of the average population in each FMCSA pool.

What This Means to You

  • Employers will be required to conduct fewer random drug tests in 2016 than in 2015.
  • Companies operating more than one DOT number should establish a separate random testing pool for each.
Go here to review the FMCSA’s Regulation: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/enforcement/annual-random-controlled-substances-testing-percentage-rate-calendar-year

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Michael Klazema

About Michael Klazema The author

Michael Klazema is the lead author and editor for Dallas-based backgroundchecks.com with a focus on human resource and employment screening developments

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