How Long Does My Violation Stay in the Clearinghouse?

Introduction to the FMCSA ClearinghouseThe FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a secure online database that tracks DOT drug and alcohol violations for CDL drivers. It helps employers, law enforcement, and other authorities ensure that only qualified and compliant drivers operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).
If you’ve received a violation in the Clearinghouse, you may be wondering how long it will stay on record and what steps you need to take to return to duty. At SAP Evaluator, we provide CDL drivers with the necessary Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluations to help them regain compliance and resume their driving careers.


What Constitutes a Violation in the Clearinghouse?A violation in the FMCSA Clearinghouse occurs when a CDL driver commits a DOT drug and alcohol testing infraction. Common violations include:

• Positive drug or alcohol test results (BAC of 0.04% or higher)
  
  
  
• Refusing a DOT-mandated drug or alcohol test
  
  
  
• Being caught using drugs or alcohol while on duty
  
  
  
• Violating a return-to-duty testing requirement
  
  
  
• Employers reporting actual knowledge of a driver's substance use
  
  
  

Once a violation is reported, it remains in the FMCSA Clearinghouse database and is accessible to potential employers when conducting pre-employment queries.




How Long Do Violations Stay in the FMCSA Clearinghouse?1. Standard Violation Retention PeriodFMCSA regulations state that violations remain in the Clearinghouse for five years or until the return-to-duty (RTD) process is successfully completed, whichever comes later.
For example, if a driver fails a DOT drug test and completes the SAP program in one year, the violation will still stay in the Clearinghouse for a total of five years from the date of the violation.
2. The Impact of Completing the SAP ProgramOnce a driver completes the SAP process and passes the return-to-duty (RTD) test, their record is updated, and they are allowed to resume work. However, the violation remains in the database for tracking purposes for the five-year duration.




The Impact of a Clearinghouse Violation on CDL DriversA violation in the Clearinghouse can have significant consequences on a CDL driver’s career, including:

• Employment Restrictions – Many employers avoid hiring drivers with active violations.
  
  
  
• Suspension from Safety-Sensitive Duties – Drivers cannot operate a CMV until they complete the SAP process.
  
  
  
• Higher Insurance Costs – Insurance companies may increase premiums due to a history of violations.
  
  
  

To minimize these negative impacts, it’s crucial to complete a SAP evaluation and follow the return-to-duty (RTD) process as soon as possible.




How to Remove a Violation from the ClearinghouseWhile violations cannot be removed before five years, drivers can take steps to regain eligibility for employment:

1. Complete the SAP Program – Work with a certified SAP professional to complete the evaluation and required treatment.
   
   
   
2. Pass a Return-to-Duty Test – Once the SAP program is completed, take and pass a DOT drug and alcohol test.
   
   
   
3. Follow the Follow-Up Testing Plan – The SAP will determine a follow-up testing schedule to ensure continued compliance.
   
   
   
4. Maintain a Clean Record – Avoid any further violations to prevent long-term career damage.
   
   
   

SAP Evaluator specializes in helping CDL drivers successfully complete their SAP process and return to work as quickly as possible.



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)1. Can I return to work before my violation is removed from the Clearinghouse?Yes, you can return to work after completing the SAP program and passing the return-to-duty test, even though the violation will still be recorded for five years.
2. Will my violation automatically disappear after five years?Yes, after five years, the violation is automatically removed from the Clearinghouse database as long as you have completed the SAP process.
3. What happens if I fail another DOT drug or alcohol test?A second violation will restart the five-year retention period and require you to go through the SAP process again.
4. How can I check my Clearinghouse record?You can log in to the FMCSA Clearinghouse website to view your records and check the status of your violation.
5. How much does the SAP program cost?Costs vary depending on the required treatment and evaluations, but SAP Evaluator offers affordable and transparent pricing.


Take Control of Your Career – Enroll with SAP Evaluator Today!A Clearinghouse violation doesn’t have to end your career. By taking immediate action and working with a certified SAP provider, you can return to work quickly and legally.
🚛 Get started with SAP Evaluator today and take the first step toward clearing your violation! 🚛
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