Federal regulation 49 CFR Part 382 requires every CDL driver in safety-sensitive work to belong to a DOT-compliant drug and alcohol testing program. Owner-operators and small carriers meet that requirement by joining a consortium. Long Haul Compliance runs one of the most reliable consortium programs in the Southeast.
What's included in our consortium
Random testing pool with statistically valid selections (at least 50% drug, 10% alcohol annually).
Pre-employment, reasonable-suspicion, post-accident, return-to-duty and follow-up testing.
FMCSA Clearinghouse queries, both pre-employment full queries and annual limited queries.
Supervisor reasonable-suspicion training (60 minutes drug + 60 minutes alcohol).
Year-end MIS reports and an audit-ready paper trail.
Why a consortium matters
A solo CDL holder cannot run their own random pool, the FMCSA explicitly requires a third-party administrator. Failing to enroll in a consortium is one of the fastest ways to fail a new-entrant safety audit.
If you've ever been told your random rate is 'wrong' or your Clearinghouse status is 'not registered', that's the consortium's job to fix. Ours does.
Our process
Step 1, Enrollment paperwork and Clearinghouse consent.
Step 2, Pre-employment drug screen scheduled at a SAMHSA-certified collection site near you.
Step 3, You're added to our random pool the same day results clear.
Step 4, We notify you any time you're selected and walk you through collection and follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
Do owner-operators really need a drug consortium?
Yes. If you hold a CDL and operate a CMV in interstate commerce, you must be in a DOT-compliant testing program. The FMCSA does not allow self-administration for solo drivers.
How often will I be randomly tested?
On average about once every 12–24 months for drugs, less often for alcohol, but it's truly random. Some drivers go years without a selection, others get picked back-to-back.
What happens if I refuse or test positive?
Refusal or a positive result is treated as a 'prohibited' status in the FMCSA Clearinghouse. You cannot legally drive a CMV until you complete the Return-to-Duty process with a Substance Abuse Professional.
Common questions about drug & alcohol consortium
In-depth guides answering the questions carriers ask us most about this service.
- DOT Drug & Alcohol Consortium: What Truckers Need to Know in 2025Owner-operators and small carriers are required to join a DOT drug and alcohol consortium. Here's how consortiums work, what testing is required, and what the Clearinghouse changed.15 min read
- What Is a DOT Drug and Alcohol Consortium?A consortium (C/TPA) runs the random testing pool the FMCSA requires you to be in. Here's what a consortium actually does, why owner-operators can't run their own, and what it costs.14 min read
- What Drugs Are Tested for on a DOT Drug Test?The DOT 5-panel covers marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids and PCP, with specific cutoff levels. Here's exactly what's tested, how the MRO reviews it, and what a positive triggers.14 min read
- What Is the Difference Between a DOT and Non-DOT Drug Test?DOT tests follow federal chain of custody under 49 CFR Part 40; non-DOT tests are employer policy. Here's how they differ, and whether a DOT physical includes a drug test.13 min read