A truck driver may have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and still be prohibited from driving because of a DOT drug or alcohol violation. For Alaska trucking employers, checking a driver’s license alone is not enough to confirm they are eligible to operate a commercial vehicle.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) tracks these violations through its Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse. Employers covered by FMCSA testing rules must check driver eligibility and follow federal requirements when violations occur.
What Do FMCSA Clearinghouse Reports Show?
FMCSA’s September 2026 report shows that 218,977 drivers nationwide were in prohibited status as of October 1, 2026. Reported drug and alcohol violations decreased from 63,516 in 2024 to 58,130 in 2025. These are national figures, but they show why employers still need to verify driver eligibility.
A driver with an unresolved violation cannot perform safety-sensitive duties, even with a valid CDL. For Alaska fleet managers, missing that information can lead to compliance problems and preventable disruptions.
What Must Alaska Employers Do?
A driver who fails a DOT drug test, has a qualifying alcohol violation, or refuses required testing must be removed from safety-sensitive duties. Before returning, the driver must complete the required return-to-duty process, including a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluation and a qualifying return-to-duty test. Follow-up testing is also required after the driver returns.
Employers must complete a full Clearinghouse query before allowing a newly hired covered CDL driver to perform safety-sensitive duties and conduct annual queries for current covered drivers. They must also follow applicable reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Even when a third-party administrator assists, the employer remains responsible for compliance.
Stay Prepared With DOT Drug Testing in Alaska
A reliable testing program helps employers stay organized when pre-employment, random, post-accident, or reasonable suspicion testing is required. Keeping accurate records and completing the required Clearinghouse checks helps prevent ineligible drivers from being assigned to safety-sensitive work.
MedPhysicals Plus provides DOT drug testing and occupational health services for Alaska employers. With locations in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Wasilla, Soldotna, and Juneau, we help businesses coordinate workplace health services, with drug testing available at Anchorage, Fairbanks, Wasilla, and Soldotna.
Need help with DOT drug testing? Call (907) 561-7587, email admin@medphysicalsplus.com, or visit medphysicalsplus.com to learn more