2024 marks a year of significant changes for commercial drivers and their companies in terms of Department of Transportation compliance. These changes range from adjustments in speed limits and pollution fines to updated regulations for drug and alcohol use, as well as new fee levels. One thing that has not changed in 2024 is MedPhysicals Plus ability to conduct DOT physicals at our Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Wasilla locations. Be sure to visit us or call us at (907) 561-7587 with any questions. Please note that some of this information is subject to change as some of these laws are still being finalized, and more changes may come later in the year, so stay tuned.
Speed Limits:
The official number has not been decided, but there may be some limitations to the speed limit for commercial drivers; there is talk of limiting it to between 65 and 70, depending on the state. In the state of Alaska, there will also be seasonal limitations, and some of these that have already been in place will be changed, so pay close attention to our future blog post for the final answer on the 2024 speed limitations.
CDL Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse & Return to Duty Process:
To regain good standing, drivers must adhere to stringent re-evaluation criteria. This includes consulting with a DOT-approved Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), fulfilling the prescribed treatment or education plan, successfully passing a return-to-duty test, and completing six surprise follow-up tests during the first year back at work. To avoid suspension, both drivers and fleet managers need to familiarize themselves with Clearinghouse protocols, which cover aspects like pre-employment drug and alcohol tests, record access, and mandatory reporting to the FMCSA (Samba Safety).
Read the eCFR full policy here.
These are just a few of the updated policies; you can find more here. We plan on sharing more as more information comes out later this month, and even this year. In the meantime, start the new year right by being compliant and safe if you are a manager or work with a fleet and sure all of your commercial drivers are up to date with their DOT physicals. Give us a call today with any questions!