Number of Random Selections Required per Year for DOT Compliance Requirements: DOT Drug Testing Software

DrugTestNetwork provides drug testing software utilities to assist TPAs (Third Party Administrators) and employers to maintain compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation Regulations (DOT). DrugTestNetwork’s data management software application features random selection modules that generate random selections for DOT Drug Testing Compliance (U.S. Department of Transportation). The Random Selection Modules can also be used for Non-DOT applications as well.

Earlier versions of DOT regulations for random drug and alcohol testing required quarterly random selections, at a minimum, however, the current language seems to suggest quarterly randoms, but doesn’t specifically state that quarterly randoms are required.

The requirement for quarterly random selections seems to have been dropped from their compliance specifications (see the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) rule, 49 CFR Part 40, describes required procedures for conducting workplace drug and alcohol testing for the Federally regulated transportation industry).  Currrently, the language suggests that quarterly random selections should be performed, but doesn’t stipulate that quarterly randoms are a requirement.  However, there are no specific limits on the number of randoms: weekly, monthly, etc.  You can generate randoms as often as needed.

To be in compliance, for DOT drug and alcohol testing, you should ensure your random testing program achieves the annual targets required for the DOT Mode that applies:

• FMCSA:Federal Motor Carries Safety Administration
• FAA: Federal Aviation Administration
• PHMSA:Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
• FRA: Federal Railroad Administration
• USCG: United States Coast Guard
• FTA:Federal Transit Administration