Answer

How can an employer apply for the FMCSA Under-21 Non-Military Pilot Program?

"Currently, 49 states and the District of Columbia already allow 18 to 20-year-old CDL holders to operate CMVs in intrastate commerce—meaning under-21 drivers may currently drive within state borders, such as from Houston to El Paso or from Miami to Tallahassee." Additionally, the FMCSA proposed a new under-21 commercial driver pilot program for interstate commerce in 2020 that is still pending "thoughts and opinions". More information can be found on the FMCSA Proposed Pilot Program page. A similar program was launched for military members in 2018 and was proposed two years earlier before officially launching.

"Currently, 49 states and the District of Columbia already allow 18 to 20-year-old CDL holders to operate CMVs in intrastate commerce—meaning under-21 drivers may currently drive within state borders, such as from Houston to El Paso or from Miami to Tallahassee." Additionally, the FMCSA proposed a new under-21 commercial driver pilot program for interstate commerce in 2020 that is still pending "thoughts and opinions". More information can be found on the FMCSA Proposed Pilot Program page. A similar program was launched for military members in 2018 and was proposed two years earlier before officially launching.

There is no test for CBD, DISA’s tests will screen for THC or cannabinoids. Any test that screens for THC or cannabinoids is going to report findings for THC or cannabinoids that exceed the panel thresholds (levels). The origin of the substance will not be considered by the Medical Review Officer (MRO). DISA’s non-DOT corporate policy offers clients the option to customize testing panels.

Drug and Alcohol Testing related

Can I hire someone with an invalid result?

An invalid test result is acceptable except in the following cases:

  • The employer needs a negative test result (DOT and Consortium Pre-Employment, Return-to-Duty)
  • The MRO has instructed a recollection and/or medical evaluation

Return-to-Duty and SAP referrals are relevant to non-negative results so, if an employee is restricted due to an invalid test result that employee should not be subject to an RTD program (unless the client’s corporate policy indicates otherwise).