The Legal Examiner Affiliate Network The Legal Examiner The Legal Examiner The Legal Examiner search instagram avvo phone envelope checkmark mail-reply spinner error close The Legal Examiner The Legal Examiner The Legal Examiner
Skip to main content
Do Owner-Operator Truck Drivers Get Drug Tested?

Founder & Principal Attorney
Maison Law
866-383-8922

Being the owner-operator of your own vehicle offers you a great deal of flexibility and independence. At the same time, being an owner-operator comes with a lot of responsibility. Your livelihood quite literally depends on your ability to follow regulations and remain licensed so you can stay on the road.

One of the most stringent regulations set by the Department of Transportation (DOT), which regulates all commercial truck drivers and companies, is the requirement for drug testing. This happens to include owner-operators, who are subject to the same drug testing regulations as other commercial drivers, and they must follow the same testing procedures. That said, the burdens that come with being an owner-operator truck driver can make these regulations even more significant for you.

What Is An Owner-Operator Truck Driver?

As the name suggests, an owner-operator truck driver is a self-employed truck driver that owns and operates their own commercial trucking business, either by driving the truck themselves or leasing it to other companies. These drivers are responsible for all aspects of the business, including:

  • Managing their schedule
  • Finding and booking loads
  • Maintaining their truck and trailer
  • Managing their finances

Owner-operators typically have more control over their schedule and work-life balance than truck drivers that are employed by a company and also have greater earning potential since they are responsible for all the expenses associated with their business.

A major expense that is related to maintaining compliance with federal regulations is drug testing. As an owner-operator, not only are you responsible for complying with the DOT’s drug testing requirements, but you also have to pay for it out of your own pocket.

What Are DOT Drug Testing Requirements For Owner-Operators?

DOT drug testing requirements for owner-operators are the same as for all other commercial drivers. The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all commercial drivers, including owner-operators, to undergo drug testing at various times, including:

  • Pre-employment testing
  • Random testing
  • Post-accident testing
  • Reasonable suspicion testing
  • Return-to-duty testing

Staying up-to-date with DOT drug testing requirements is crucial for owner-operators to avoid potential consequences such as fines or loss of their commercial driver’s license. It’s also essential to note that refusal to undergo drug testing is considered a violation of DOT regulations and can result in the suspension or loss of your commercial driver’s license. Therefore, it’s important to stay informed and comply with DOT drug testing requirements to maintain your commercial driver’s license and keep yourself and others safe on the road.

How Do Owner-Operators Comply With DOT Drug Testing Requirements?

Obviously, complying with DOT drug testing requirements is extremely important for owner-operators. However, the added expense and hassle of taking time off the road to get tested can sometimes tempt these drivers into trying to avoid it. This could have disastrous consequences on your business as an owner-operator, so taking the correct steps to comply with testing requirements is vital. Here are some steps you may need to take:

  • Understand DOT drug testing regulations – As an owner-operator, taking the steps to educate yourself on the DOT drug testing regulations and understand the requirements for drug testing is the first step in ensuring you remain compliant with them.
  • Use a certified drug testing laboratory – Using a certified drug testing laboratory that meets DOT requirements for testing and reporting drug test results is the next step. Research and reviews are plentiful in this regard, but ultimately, you’ll want to use a reputable company that can help ensure the accuracy and validity of your results.
  • Follow proper chain of custody procedures – While a lab is important, it’s even more important that proper chain of custody procedures are followed to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the drug testing process.

There’s no way around these regulations if you’re an owner-operator, but at the same time, it can be a bit stressful financially to take time away from your day-to-day business. That’s why many owner-operators utilize consortiums to meet DOT drug testing requirements without having to establish their own drug testing program, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

DOT Drug Testing Solutions For Owner-Operators

When you own and operate a commercial truck, maintaining compliance with DOT regulations is one of the most important aspects of your business. Part of that process is complying with the DOT’s drug testing requirements. Fleet Drug Testing offers solutions for owner-operators to make this process more convenient and cost-effective. To learn more, visit their website or contact them for a consultation.

Comments for this article are closed.