What is the difference between a DOT and non-DOT drug screen?
A DOT, or federal, drug screen is one that is required of all CDL holding drivers. Rather than the collection of a single specimen, it requires a backup specimen, or a “split” specimen. To be considered a valid test it also requires the approval of a medical review officer (MRO). Non-DOT testing can be identical to testing completed under DOT requirements, if it is on a non-federal drug testing form. Such testing should be specifically identified in a company’s substance abuse policy, and not construed to be required under DOT testing requirements listed in 49 CFR Part 382 and 40.
