What Training Do Breath Alcohol and Screening Test Technicians Need?

Under 49 CFR 40.213(a), a BAT or STT must be knowledgeable about the Part 40 alcohol testing procedures and current DOT guidance, keep current on changes, and subscribe to the ODAPC list-serve. Under 40.213(b), qualification training follows the DOT Model BAT or STT Course, or an equivalent course, and includes training to proficiency on the specific ASD or EBT the technician will use. Under 40.213(b)(4), the instructor must have regularly conducted DOT alcohol tests as an STT or BAT for at least a year, have conducted STT or BAT training under Part 40 for a year, or have completed a train the trainer course.

Under 40.213(c), the technician then completes an initial proficiency demonstration of seven consecutive error-free mock tests for a BAT, or five for an STT. Another qualified person monitors and evaluates the mock tests in person or in real time and attests in writing that they were error-free. Under 40.213(d), both steps are completed before the person performs BAT or STT functions.

Under 40.213(e), refresher training, including the mock tests, is due no less frequently than every five years. Under 40.213(f), a technician whose mistake causes a test to be cancelled completes error correction training within 30 days of being notified, including three consecutive error-free mock tests. Under 40.213(g), the technician keeps documentation of meeting these requirements and provides it on request to DOT agency representatives and to employers and C/TPAs negotiating to use the technician's services.

Learn Laws® offers DOT Breath Alcohol Technician Training, which covers the seven mock tests in 40.213(c), and DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician Training (STT), which covers the five STT mock tests. Certified law enforcement officers are treated separately, as covered in Who Can Conduct a DOT Alcohol Test?.

Some Alcohol Testing listings in the MyDrugTesting.com directory show Trainers as the provider's category label.