Finally: A Workaround for Drivers Who’ve Completed SAP but Can’t Get an RTD Test
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One of the Most Unfortunate Roadblocks in the SAP Process
As a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), I’ve worked with hundreds of drivers committed to doing the right thing—completing their evaluation, following through with education or treatment, and becoming eligible to return to duty. But one of the most unfortunate issues I run into happens after all of that is done. Months later, I’ll get a message from a driver saying:
“I can’t find a company to hire me because I still need a return-to-duty test.”
The frustrating part? They’re technically ready to go—but stuck in limbo because the DOT Clearinghouse requires an employer (or prospective employer) to order that RTD test. And many companies are reluctant to bring on a driver who hasn’t yet completed that final step.
An Update from SAPList: A New Solution for Drivers
Recently, I received an important update from Lee Mauk, an expert of DOT drug and alcohol testing regulations and founder of SAPList, someone I’ve long respected for staying on top of key changes in the DOT world.
Thanks to a recent Clearinghouse II rule update, drivers who have completed the SAP process can now take an important new step—even without a traditional employer lined up.
Here’s What’s Changed
If you’re a driver who has been declared eligible by your SAP but can’t find a company to order your return-to-duty test, you now have a DOT-approved workaround:
You can enroll yourself as an “owner-operator” with a Consortium/Third-Party Administrator (C/TPA) for the limited purpose of having that test ordered and reported to the Clearinghouse.
This means the C/TPA can order and report your RTD test, closing the loop and allowing you to officially re-enter the workforce.
Important: This does not mean you’re operating a business or starting your own trucking company. It’s simply a procedural option that gives you access to a required test when employers aren’t stepping in.
What Is a C/TPA?
A Consortium/Third-Party Administrator (C/TPA) is a service agent that manages drug and alcohol testing programs for DOT-regulated employers—and for owner-operators.
Under this new rule, enrolling with a C/TPA as an individual allows them to act on your behalf and make the necessary test submission to the Clearinghouse.
Next Steps for Drivers
If you’ve been stuck in the return-to-duty process without an employer willing to help, this change could be the answer. Here’s what to do:
Ask about enrolling as an owner-operator specifically to have your RTD test ordered.
Complete the test and close the loop on your Clearinghouse requirements.
SAPList has a directory of C/TPAs familiar with this process. I encourage you to start there.
Final Thoughts
The return-to-duty process should be fair and accessible—not impossible. This update gives drivers a way to move forward when no one else is stepping in.
A big thank you again to Lee from SAPList for sharing this news with the community and helping make these updates known.
If you’re looking for a DOT-qualified SAP, or need help understanding how this process works, visit our SAP directory or reach out directly. We're here to support you.
This is great news!