Department of Transportation (DOT) regulated employees who test positive for drugs or alcohol or refuse a require test must go through a return to duty process with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). There are six steps to the Return to Duty process.
- Find a SAP to provide you the program
- Designate the SAP in the Clearinghouse
- Have the initial SAP evaluation
- Have the follow-up SAP evaluation with determination of eligibility of return to duty testing
- Work with your employer of C/TPA for the return to duty test with negative result
- Employer must initiate and help you complete the Follow-Up testing program as determined by the SAP
If you’re going through the DOT SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) process, choosing the right provider can make or break your return-to-duty timeline. While some SAPs guide you efficiently through the process, others may cause delays, compliance issues, or unexpected costs. Not all SAPs are created equal—and knowing the difference is critical.
Red Flags: How to Spot a Bad SAP
If someone offers prices far below the industry standard, proceed with caution. The SAP process isn’t just a quick form or phone call. It requires time, documentation, and regulatory compliance. Low-cost SAPs may be cutting corners, which can ultimately result in you having to redo the process and delay your return to work.
A SAP’s role is limited to Steps 1 to 4: evaluation, treatment recommendations, and follow-up. If they claim they can also handle your return-to-duty drug test (Steps 5 and 6), that’s a major red flag. These steps are managed by your employer or a third-party administrator (C/TPA), not the SAP. National Drug Screening is a great recourse to complete step 5.
By DOT rule, SAPs are required to refer you to third-party providers for counseling, treatment, or education and not provide those services themselves. A SAP offering in-house services is violating DOT standards.
If you have a CDL or CLP and your violation is posted in the Clearinghouse, your SAP must be registered to update your record. Always search their name on the Clearinghouse website to verify their status.
A responsible SAP will recommend DOT lookalike tests before you take the official return-to-duty drug test. DOT suggests completing at least three clean look alike tests to confirm you’re truly ready.
Traits of a Great SAP
A great SAP does more than just check boxes—they help you move through the process efficiently and in full compliance with DOT regulations.
Understands Industry-Specific DOT Regulations
Emphasizes the Importance of Drug Testing
Always Refers to External Providers
They will never offer treatment or education directly but instead connect you with trusted third-party programs.
Clearinghouse Registered
A must-have for CDL/CLP holders. If they’re not listed in the Clearinghouse, they can’t update your compliance status.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right SAP affects how quickly and successfully you get back to work. Bad SAPs can waste your time and money, or worse, get you stuck in a process that doesn’t meet DOT standards. A great SAP keeps you on track, follows all regulations, and helps you move forward with confidence.
Need help finding a qualified SAP? Reach out to Resilient Return Counseling Solutions at (469) 966-6619 and we’ll make sure you’re working with someone who gets it right the first time. You can also book your SAP appointment here.
For all drug testing needs, National Drug Screening is the expert in this field.
