In the trucking industry, compliance with the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is non-negotiable. One critical requirement for new drivers is passing a pre-employment drug test before they can legally operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). However, some drivers schedule their drug test but never show up for the screening. If you're in this situation, it's important to understand the consequences and how it affects your career.

What Happens If You Don’t Take Your Scheduled Drug Test?

The DOT has strict guidelines regarding pre-employment drug testing. If a driver is aware of the test but fails to appear, here’s what happens:

1. The Test is Considered a Refusal
   According to DOT regulations (49 CFR Part 40), failing to take a scheduled drug test without a legitimate reason is considered a refusal to test—the same as testing positive.

2. Immediate Disqualification from Driving
   A refusal to test prohibits you from performing any safety-sensitive functions, including driving a CMV, until you complete the DOT’s Return-to-Duty (RTD) process with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

3. Record on Your Clearinghouse Report
   Employers are required to report refusals to the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. This stays on your record for five years or until you complete the RTD process. Future employers will see this information when they run a Clearinghouse query.

4. Difficulty Finding Future Employment
   Most trucking companies have zero-tolerance policies for drug test refusals. This means you could struggle to find work as a commercial driver.

5. Potential Legal Consequences
   If you were knowingly avoiding the test because you suspected a positive result, understand that some states and companies may take further action, such as reporting the issue to licensing agencies.

What Should You Do If You Missed Your Drug Test?

If you accidentally missed your appointment, communicate with the employer immediately to see if rescheduling is an option. If the test is already marked as a refusal, you must:

1. Contact a DOT-Qualified SAP – Begin the Return-to-Duty process as soon as possible.

2. Complete the Required Steps – This includes an evaluation, any recommended treatment, and a follow-up testing plan.

3. Stay Compliant Moving Forward – Avoid future refusals or positive tests, as multiple violations can permanently damage your career.

Avoiding Compliance Issues in the Future

• Show up for all scheduled drug tests on time.

• Stay drug-free to ensure a smooth pre-employment process.

• Understand the Clearinghouse rules and how violations affect your career.

At BUnited Services, we help trucking professionals stay compliant with DOT regulations, ensuring their careers stay on track. If you need assistance understanding drug testing requirements or managing compliance, contact us today!