Return-to-Duty & Follow-Up Instructions

Return-to-Duty Process

Violation → SAP Evaluation → Treatment → RTD Test (Observed) → Cleared to Return

Follow-Up Testing Process

RTD Completed → SAP Plan → Unannounced Tests → Minimum 6 Tests (12 Months)

Important Testing Notes

• Order drug tests online (QPassports) through your Express Labs account
• Or use the Quest paper forms provided by Express Labs
• Drivers must bring the QPassport or Quest form to the collection site
• All DOT drug tests must be ordered through Express Labs.
• Results from other consortiums or third-party programs are not accepted

Overview

• Send drivers for Return-to-Duty testing only after completing a full Clearinghouse query and verifying drug & alcohol policy requirements
• Drivers are returned to the random testing pool after negative RTD results are verified by the Express Labs MRO
• A Return-to-Duty drug test satisfies the pre-employment drug test requirement for new hires
• Employers are responsible for scheduling and monitoring follow-up testing
• DOT requires drivers to report for follow-up testing immediately upon notification

Reporting RTD & Follow-Up to Clearinghouse – View Instructions

• Employers must report negative Return-to-Duty results to the Clearinghouse
• Employers must report the date of the first follow-up test to the Clearinghouse

SAP Evaluation (Substance Abuse Professional)

• The SAP determines when a driver may return to duty
• A minimum of 6 follow-up tests within the first 12 months is required
• Follow-up testing may continue for up to 5 years

Return-Duty & Follow-Up Drug Testing Instructions (Observed)

1. Login to your Express Labs account
2. Click “Order Drug Tests” on the top tabs
3. Select the Reason (Return-to-Duty or Follow-Up)
4. Site Locator - choose a site by ZIP code (collection fees included)
5. Click “Complete Order”
6. Check your email for the QPassport from Quest within 1 hour of ordering
7. Review your order (charges apply only when tests are completed)
8. Call the collection site to confirm availability and notify the driver
9. Driver must bring the QPassport (printed or on phone) and complete the observed test

Observed Collection Requirements:

• Collection must be directly observed
• Same-gender collector is required
• Collector must watch urine enter the container

Additional Requirements – View Instructions

• Clearinghouse Registration & Queries
• Drug & Alcohol Policy Requirements
• Supervisor Training Course

Owner Operators

Express Labs does not manage the Return-to-Duty or Follow-Up process for owner-operators.

• Owner Operators who have a violation in the Clearinghouse can not enroll in Express Labs Consortium
• Owner Operators who test positive will be removed from the consortium

Express Labs FMCSA Random Drug & Alcohol Consortium
Return-to-Duty | Follow-Up | Updated 2026