Supervisors overseeing CDL drivers must undergo mandatory training to recognize signs of drug and alcohol misuse and comply with FMCSA and USDOT regulations. Training ensures your team maintains road safety and fulfills federal requirements.
Supervisor Training Requirements
Employers must ensure that all personnel assigned to supervise drivers (CDL) obtain at least 60 minutes of alcohol misuse training and an extra 60 minutes of controlled substance use training. Supervisors will use the training to assess whether there is reasonable suspicion to ask the driver to undergo testing under 49 CFR § 382.307. The training must contain physical, behavioral, speech, and performance signs of potential alcohol abuse and controlled substance use. Recurrent training for supervisory workers is not necessary.
Although owner-operators are not required to take this training, you still must be registered with a consortium for DOT drug and alcohol testing.
Where Training Is Available
The FMCSA has supervisor training available in video format that can be downloaded from their website for free:
- Visit: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/us-department-transportation-dot-drug-alcohol-supervisor-training-guidance
- Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the last link:
https://transit-safety.fta.dot.gov/DrugAndAlcohol/Tools/ReasonableSuspicion.aspx
Ensure Compliance, Safety on the Road
In addition to meeting federal requirements, this mandatory supervisor training promotes a safer working environment. Supervisors can take immediate action if they suspect a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which helps prevent impaired drivers from continuing to operate commercial vehicles and reduces the risk of accidents. In addition, knowing that they can be tested based on reasonable suspicion serves as a deterrent for drivers who might otherwise consider using drugs or alcohol. The possibility of being tested encourages drivers to adhere to safe and sober driving practices.
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