Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
What FMCSA’s Clearinghouse records, who checks it and when, and how a violation comes off your record.
CDL Permit Test · How to Get a CDL
What is the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse?
FMCSA’s database of drug and alcohol violations by CDL and permit holders. It records a positive, adulterated or substituted drug test; an alcohol test of 0.04 or higher; a refusal to test; and an employer’s actual knowledge of drug or alcohol use on the job.
49 CFR 382.701(a) and 382.705.
Who checks the Clearinghouse?
Your state, before it issues, renews, upgrades or transfers your permit or CDL. It has had to since November 18, 2024.
Employers, before you first drive for them and at least once a year after that.
49 CFR 382.725, 383.73 and 382.701(a) and (b).
Do I need to register?
Yes, when an employer asks for a full check: you give your consent in the Clearinghouse itself. Registering also lets you see your own record, which is free.
49 CFR 382.703(b), 382.709 and 382.721.
What happens if I have a violation?
You can’t drive a commercial vehicle until you finish the return-to-duty process: an evaluation by a substance abuse professional (SAP), the education or treatment they set, and a negative return-to-duty test.
Your state must remove the CDL or permit from your license within 60 days of learning you’re prohibited.
49 CFR 382.503, 382.701(d) and 383.73(q).
How long does a violation stay on my record?
Until all of these are done: the SAP has reported, you’ve passed the return-to-duty test, your employer has reported every follow-up test the SAP set, and five years have passed since the violation. Then employers no longer see it.
49 CFR 382.719(a).
Can I correct a wrong record?
You can ask FMCSA to fix an administrative error, such as a typing mistake or a report entered twice. You can’t use it to dispute a test result.
49 CFR 382.717(a).