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DOT and non-DOT

DOT vs Non-DOT Drug Testing

DOT drug testing is federally regulated testing for safety-sensitive transportation jobs. It has to follow 49 CFR Part 40, and instant tests can't be used for it. Everything else is non-DOT testing, where an instant test gives a result on site in minutes.

The differences, side by side

DOT testingNon-DOT testing
Who it coversSafety-sensitive jobs regulated by FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA and PHMSA, and maritime jobs under the Coast GuardEvery other job, under the employer's own policy
Rules49 CFR Part 40 and the agency's own ruleCompany policy and state law
CollectionA qualified collector, on the federal Custody and Control FormAs the policy sets: on site or at a collection center
Where the sample is testedAn HHS-certified laboratoryOn site with an instant test, or at a laboratory
Drugs testedThe panel and cutoffs set in Part 40Chosen by the employer
Result reviewA Medical Review Officer reviews every laboratory result that isn't negativeAs the policy sets; confirm non-negative screens at a laboratory
Instant tests allowedNoYes, subject to state rules

If your drivers or crews are DOT-regulated

Use a collection site that works with an HHS-certified laboratory and a Medical Review Officer, usually through a third-party administrator. We don't provide DOT testing.

For everyone else: non-DOT testing

Company-policy testing can use instant tests, subject to state rules. We sell 32 CLIA waived cups from $0.79 a cup at 20,000+, plus oral fluid tests and single-drug strips.

Workplace testing (non-DOT)

CLIA waived cups for non-DOT programs

Questions about DOT and non-DOT testing

Can I use an instant drug test for DOT testing?

No. DOT-required tests must be collected on the federal Custody and Control Form and analyzed at an HHS-certified laboratory, with a Medical Review Officer reviewing results. Instant cups, dip cards and oral swabs can't be used for them.

What is a non-DOT drug test?

Any drug test that isn't required by a DOT agency: pre-employment, random, post-accident or reasonable-suspicion testing under a company's own policy. The employer chooses the drugs and the method, within state law.

What does a DOT drug test check for?

The drug classes and cutoffs set in 49 CFR Part 40. The rule changes from time to time, so check the current version or ask your laboratory or third-party administrator.

Where do DOT employers get tested?

Through a collection site that works with an HHS-certified laboratory and a Medical Review Officer, often arranged by a third-party administrator (TPA). We don't provide DOT testing.

Do non-DOT positive results need to be confirmed?

Yes. A positive result on an instant test is preliminary. Before any legal, employment or clinical action, have the specimen confirmed by a certified laboratory using GC-MS or LC-MS/MS. 12 Panel Now isn't affiliated with a specific laboratory, so customers arrange confirmation testing independently.