SAP (Substance Abuse Professional)
Substance Abuse Professionals
Substance Abuse Professionals (SAPs) are licensed or certified professionals that have knowledge not only of the diagnosis and treatment of alcohol and controlled substances related disorders, but also of DOT drug and alcohol testing and return-to-duty processes as required by §40.281.
A DOT-qualified SAP initially evaluates drivers who have violated DOT drug and alcohol regulations and makes recommendations concerning education, treatment, follow-up testing, and aftercare. Once the education and/or treatment is successfully completed, the SAP reassesses the driver’s condition and, if satisfied with the driver’s compliance, completes a SAP report and prescribes a series of follow-up tests covering a period of one to five years.
Any motor carrier employing this driver during the prescribed period must complete the follow-up testing as specified by the SAP.
As an employer, you must provide employees with a list of SAPs qualified under §40.281. The regulation [§40.287] requires the employer to provide the employee with a list of qualified SAPs. Your failure to provide such a list could result in sanctions issued by the DOT Modal Administration with jurisdiction over you.
As an employee, ask your employer for a list of SAPs in your area (even if the employer fired you or did not hire you). A SAP qualified to act in the DOT drug and alcohol testing program must meet the SAP qualification requirements in §40.281.
If your employer did not provide you with a list of qualified SAPs, search the internet using search terms such as “DOT qualified SAP” or “DOT and SAP”.
Please know that neither the DOT nor any of its Agencies has or maintains a list of SAPs or any other service agents.