SAP Services & Follow Up

If you’re a commercial driver in the United States and have violated Department of Transportation (DOT) drug and alcohol regulations, you may be required to undergo an assessment and treatment program facilitated by a DOT Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). Finding the right DOT SAP is crucial to ensuring you meet the necessary requirements and can return to work safely. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of finding a qualified SAP and provide some guidance on how to do so.

Why You Need a DOT SAP

DOT SAPs play a pivotal role in helping commercial drivers with substance abuse issues get back on track and regain their eligibility to operate commercial vehicles. Here are some key reasons why finding the right SAP is essential:

1. Compliance: DOT regulations mandate that individuals who have violated drug and alcohol policies must work with a SAP to evaluate their eligibility for returning to safety-sensitive duties. Failing to comply can result in suspension or revocation of your commercial driver’s license.
2. Safety: Ensuring that individuals with substance abuse issues receive proper assessment and treatment is vital for the safety of both the driver and the public. A SAP’s role is to determine when it’s safe for a driver to resume their duties.
3. Rehabilitation: SAPs help individuals address the root causes of their substance abuse problems and guide them through the recovery process. This support is essential for long-term success.

Finding a Qualified DOT SAP

1. Certification: Ensure that the SAP you choose is certified by the Substance Abuse Professional Certification Board in their state. Certification ensures that the SAP has the necessary training and expertise to evaluate and assist individuals with substance abuse issues.
2. Experience: Look for a SAP with experience in working with commercial drivers. They should have a thorough understanding of DOT regulations and the specific challenges that drivers face.
3. Accessibility: Choose a SAP who is accessible and responsive. Timely assessments and guidance are crucial for getting back to work as soon as possible.
4. Confidentiality: A reputable SAP will maintain your confidentiality throughout the assessment and treatment process, adhering to strict privacy laws.
5. Compatibility: It’s important to find a SAP with whom you feel comfortable and can establish a trusting relationship. This will make the assessment and treatment process more effective.

Finding a DOT SAP is a critical step in the journey to rehabilitation and returning to your career as a commercial driver. By selecting a qualified, certified SAP with experience and expertise, you’ll increase your chances of successfully completing the necessary assessment and treatment and getting back on the road safely. Remember, compliance with DOT regulations is essential, for you getting back to work quickly. If you should have any questions about the SAP process in Florida or would like to learn more, call Cindy at (727) 815-6017.

A SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) is a DOT/safety sensitive position qualified substance abuse counselor who can complete an assessment to start the process to help you return to duty.  A SAP also can do assessments for non DOT positions.  Typically the process begins with an assessment.  Due to COVID, the DOT has changed the in person assessment requirements until December, 2021.  The assessment can be completed in person or by telehealth such as with Zoom. 

If a driver is listed in the Clearinghouse, they will need to assign or designate the SAP prior to the assessment.  Important to remember once a SAP is assigned, that SAP will be with you during the process.  It is very difficult & timely to change a SAP once they are designated. 

The assessment process begins with meeting with the SAP who will obtain information about the violation, extent of substance abuse and form a recommendation/treatment plan for you to complete to return to duty.  The recommendations can range from substance abuse education, outpatient substance abuse treatment or if the level of care is needed, inpatient or residential substance abuse treatment.  The SAP can also recommend attendance at sober support meetings as well as drug and alcohol testing. 

Once the assessment is completed the employee or if required, the DER (designated employer representative) will receive a letter advising of the SAP’s recommendations and what steps will need to be completed prior to being eligible for return to duty testing.  The SAP is also responsible for updating the DOT Clearinghouse within 24 hours of the assessment and follow up sessions.

Once the employee completes all necessary requirements recommended by the SAP, the SAP & employee will schedule a follow up session to review & re-assess the situation to determine if the employee is ready for return to duty testing by the employer. 

Once the employee completes the requirements & after the follow up session, the SAP will update the DOT Clearinghouse with the date of the follow up in which the date will reflect the employee is “RTD testing eligible”. 

Another letter will be created that summarizes the steps the employee has taken to comply with the SAP’s recommendations as well as any follow up testing plan.  The employee will receive a copy of the follow up plan but not the testing plan.  The testing plan goes to the DER or employer only. 

The SAP process can be fairly quick & easy but the true length of time of the process depends on the employee’s motivation to complete the SAP’s recommendations.