What is Prohibited Clearinghouse Status?

If you’re in a safety-sensitive industry such as trucking, you’ve likely encountered terms related to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. One important status to understand is Prohibited Clearinghouse Status—a classification that can have significant implications for both employees and employers.

What is the Clearinghouse?

The FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a secure online database that keeps records of drug and alcohol program violations for drivers who hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). It tracks:

1. Positive drug or alcohol test results
2. Refusals to take required tests
3. Completion of the Return-to-Duty (RTD) process

Employers, Designated Employee Representatives (DERs), and Medical Review Officers (MROs) use the Clearinghouse to check the status of CDL holders before hiring them and to report any violations.

What is Prohibited Clearinghouse Status?

When a driver’s Clearinghouse status is marked as “Prohibited,” it means they are not eligible to perform safety-sensitive duties, including driving a commercial vehicle. This status is triggered by:

1. A positive drug or alcohol test result
2. Refusal to take a DOT-mandated test
3. Failing to complete the DOT Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) process after a violation

Drivers with this status cannot operate commercial motor vehicles until they comply with the required steps to resolve the violation.

How to Resolve Prohibited Clearinghouse Status

To move from “Prohibited” to “Eligible” status, drivers must follow these steps:

1. SAP Evaluation
   Schedule an initial evaluation with a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). The SAP will assess the violation and create a personalized plan for education or treatment.
   
   
2. Complete SAP Recommendations
   Follow the recommendations provided by the SAP, whether it’s attending counseling sessions, completing a treatment program, or participating in educational courses.
   
   
3. Follow-Up Evaluation
   After completing the recommendations, return to the SAP for a follow-up evaluation. The SAP will determine if you’ve successfully complied with the program.
   
   
4. Pass a Return-to-Duty Drug or Alcohol Test
   Take and pass a DOT-monitored RTD drug or alcohol test to confirm that you’re substance-free and ready to return to work.
   
   
5. Follow-Up Testing Plan
   Once cleared, the SAP will provide a follow-up testing schedule, which may include unannounced tests for up to five years.
   
   

After completing these steps, your Clearinghouse status will be updated to reflect your eligibility to perform safety-sensitive functions.

What Employers Need to Know

Employers must comply with Clearinghouse regulations and ensure their drivers are eligible to perform safety-sensitive duties. Here’s how you can help:

1. Check Status Regularly: Use the Clearinghouse database to verify employees’ or applicants’ eligibility.

Note: The Clearinghouse only applies to FMCSA employees and DOT violations.

1. Support Compliance: Provide employees with information on how to resolve their prohibited status by starting the SAP process.
2. Choose a Trusted SAP Partner: Partner with a reliable SAP provider to help employees through the process efficiently.

Why Choose Resilient Return for SAP Evaluations?

At Resilient Return, we make resolving prohibited Clearinghouse status straightforward and stress-free. Here’s why we’re the right choice:

1. Expert SAPs: Our DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professionals have years of experience guiding drivers through the SAP process.
2. Flexible Payment Options: Start your SAP evaluation with $250 down or use Klarna’s buy now, pay later option for convenience.
3. Streamlined Process: We provide clear instructions and support to help you complete the SAP program quickly.

Take the First Step Today

Prohibited Clearinghouse status can feel like a roadblock, but with the right guidance, you can navigate the process and get back on the road. Whether you’re an employer helping your team or a driver ready to resolve your status, Resilient Return is here to help.

Book your SAP evaluation today and take the next step toward clearing your status and returning to work with confidence.