Does a DOT Drug Test Also Test for Alcohol?

A DOT drug test and a DOT alcohol test are separate procedures. Under 49 CFR 40.82, laboratories test DOT drug specimens for five drugs or classes of drugs: marijuana metabolites, cocaine metabolites, amphetamines, opioids and phencyclidine (PCP). Alcohol is not on the list, and the rule bars laboratories from testing DOT specimens for any other drugs.

DOT alcohol tests follow their own rules. Under 49 CFR 40.277, only saliva or breath may be used for screening tests and only breath may be used for confirmation tests, using approved devices. The rule states that other types of alcohol tests, such as blood and urine, are not authorized under Part 40. Alcohol tests are conducted by breath alcohol technicians (BATs) and screening test technicians (STTs), and the results are recorded on the DOT Alcohol Testing Form rather than the Custody and Control Form used for drug tests.

Whether an alcohol test is required depends on the test type and the DOT agency rules. For CDL drivers, the alcohol concentration rules are covered in What Alcohol Concentration Levels Apply to CDL Drivers? and pre-employment rules are covered in When Is a Pre-Employment Drug Test Required for CDL Drivers?

Providers that offer DOT alcohol testing, DOT drug testing or both are listed in the MyDrugTesting.com directory and can be searched by location and service.

Sources: 49 CFR 40.82, 49 CFR 40.277, 49 CFR 40.225