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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) created the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse in 2020 to prevent truck drivers from hiding a failed pre-employment screening test by quickly applying for a new driving job before the failed test shows up on their driving record. Mandated by Congress, the Clearing House is a secure online database that tracks alcohol and drug offenses by CDL holders and Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) holders. This centralized data hub empowers employers, law enforcement, and state agencies to monitor driver compliance with federal substance use regulations.
For carrier owners and fleet managers, the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse helps keep both safety and compliance regulators in check. It helps you ensure the drivers you hire and retain can safely and legally operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).
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As we noted earlier, the Clearinghouse prevents drivers with drug or alcohol violations from slipping through the cracks — whether they're moving to a new employer or applying for a CDL in another state. It does this by allowing:
What does the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse mean for carrier owners, fleet managers, and owner-operators? Reporting violations to the Clearinghouse isn't optional; it's required. The following parties must submit data:
What violations do you need to report? Violations include:
If you're hiring a new CDL driver, you must query the Clearinghouse before they can start safety-sensitive duties. This ensures the driver isn't currently prohibited from operating a CMV due to an unresolved violation.
Already have drivers on the payroll? You're also required to run an annual query on each of your drivers to stay compliant. Without performing these annual checks, your company risks costly penalties.
A driver must provide electronic consent before a prospective or current employer can run a full query. If the driver refuses, you're legally prohibited from viewing detailed violation records, and the driver is prohibited from performing safety-sensitive functions.
If you're hiring a new CDL driver, you must query the Clearinghouse before they can start safety-sensitive duties. This ensures the driver isn't currently prohibited from operating a CMV due to an unresolved violation.
Already have drivers on the payroll? You're also required to run an annual query on each of your drivers to stay compliant. Without performing these annual checks, your company risks costly penalties.
A driver must provide electronic consent before a prospective or current employer can run a full query. If the driver refuses, you're legally prohibited from viewing detailed violation records, and the driver is prohibited from performing safety-sensitive functions.
If a violation is reported in the Clearinghouse, you must immediately remove the driver from safety-sensitive functions and follow FMCSA return-to-duty requirements.
Proper documentation and quick action protect your company and demonstrate your commitment to compliance and public safety.
In addition to helping you cover your compliance bases, the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a powerful tool for managing risk. It helps you and your company:
The Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a critical part of the FMCSA's safety framework. It should also be part of your compliance strategy. Understanding how it works helps your business avoid costly violations and empowers you to build a fleet that's both compliant and dependable.
Need help navigating the Clearinghouse requirements or defending a driver facing a violation? Drivers Legal Plan® is here to support your fleet every step of the way.
Contact Drivers Legal Plan
by submitting this form