FMCSA no longer accepts requests to convert a DOT drug test to a non-DOT test

A rigorous drug and alcohol testing program is an important way to ensure that commercial vehicle drivers are alcohol-free while on duty and drug-free at all times. But what happens when an employer orders the wrong test or the lab uses the wrong form?

First Choice is Arkansas’ most trusted third-party administrator, and we offer every conceivable lab test at our southwest Little Rock lab. No appointment is ever required, and we keep a Medical Review Officer (MRO) on staff to verify the accuracy of all test results. Here are the new procedures for FMCSA drug test conversion requests, commonly known as “DOT Downgrades,” and we’re always a phone call away if you have any additional questions.

Historically, if an employer inadvertently ordered the wrong type of test (a DOT test instead of a Non-DOT test) or the lab used an incorrect reporting form, employers or Medical Review Officers (MROs) would submit requests for “DOT Downgrades” to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). However, the regulations have recently changed: Effective immediately, FMCSA no longer accepts requests to convert a DOT drug test to a non-DOT test.

In the event that a violation has been incorrectly reported based on a non-DOT drug test or a DOT drug test that should have been processed as non-DOT, employers, labs, and MROS can submit a petition to request correction of the driver’s Clearinghouse record. You can find detailed instructions on how to file a petition through FMCSA’s DataQs system using this link.

In the event that the test result has not been entered into the clearinghouse, the employer can make the determination without consulting with FMCSA. All the employer has to do is create a record of the justification and place it in the driver’s file for viewing upon request in the event of a future inspection. In either case, there is no need to contact the laboratory that reported the result or request the laboratory to re-report the result as non-DOT.