Return-to-Duty & Follow-Up Process

Drivers are automatically added to the Random Pool when our MRO reports negative Return-to-Duty DOT drug test results.

• Return-to-Duty replaces the Pre-Employment drug test for new hires
• The SAP determines Return-to-Duty eligibility and the Follow-Up Testing Plan
• Minimum 6 Follow-Up Tests during the first 12 months, continuing up to 5 years
• Follow-Up Tests do not replace Random Selections
• Drivers must Get Tested Immediately when notified
• Return-to-Duty & Follow-Up Drug Tests must be directly observed

Step 1 – FMCSA Clearinghouse

Complete a Full Query before hiring a new driver.

• Clearinghouse

Step 2 – Drug & Alcohol Policy

Drivers must receive the Policy before drug testing.

• Drug & Alcohol Policy

Step 3 – Order Return-to-Duty & Follow-Up Drug Tests

Order DOT Drug Tests online or use the Quest Paper Forms we provide.  Once enrolled, only DOT Drug Tests ordered through Express Labs or completed using Express Labs Quest Paper Forms are accepted.

1. Log in to your Express Labs account and click Order Drug Tests
2. Select Return-to-Duty or Follow-Up
3. Select a Collection Site then click Complete Order
4. Check your email for the QPassport (within 30 minutes)
5. Bring the QPassport (printed or on phone) with Photo ID to the Collection Site
6. Call the Collection Site to confirm a Same-Gender Collector is available for Direct Observation and they are accepting walk-ins

• Most Collection Sites will not begin a DOT Drug Test within 3 hours of closing
• Drug Testing Instructions

Step 4 – Clearinghouse Reporting

Employers must report negative Return-to-Duty Drug Test Results and the Date of the final Follow-Up Drug Test to the Clearinghouse.  Express Labs does not report RTD or Follow-Ups to the Clearinghouse.

• Clearinghouse Reporting

Supervisor Training

DOT requires employers to complete the Supervisor Training before making reasonable suspicion determinations.

• Supervisor Course

Driver Education

Provide drivers with the required DOT educational materials on drug and alcohol misuse, company policies, and DOT testing requirements.

• Employee Handbook
• Drug & Alcohol Brochure

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