Return-to-Duty Process for DOT-Regulated Safety-Sensitive Employees

If you work in a safety-sensitive job regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and have a drug or alcohol violation, you must complete the Return-to-Duty (RTD) process with a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) before you can return to work.

Misti Luke, LCSW, SAP, offers online, confidential, compliant SAP evaluations for employees across all DOT agencies, helping you meet federal requirements and get back to your career quickly and safely.

Who Must Complete the RTD Process?

FMCSA: Commercial motor vehicle drivers (CDL)
FAA: Pilots, flight attendants, air traffic controllers
FRA: Railroad workers
FTA: Transit operators (bus, subway, light rail)
PHMSA: Pipeline workers
USCG: Maritime crew

What Are The Return To Duty Steps?

The DOT Return-to-Duty process begins with an evaluation by a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), who assesses the driver’s situation and determines the steps required for compliance.

Based on this evaluation, the SAP provides a tailored treatment or education plan, which may include counseling, substance abuse classes, or other interventions.

Once the individual has successfully completed the recommended program, they return to the SAP for a follow-up evaluation to confirm all requirements have been met.

If approved, the driver must then take and pass a directly observed return-to-duty drug or alcohol test.

After returning to safety-sensitive duties, they are placed on a follow-up testing schedule, which may involve unannounced tests for up to five years to ensure continued compliance.

Why Choose Misti Luke, LCSW, SAP ?

Fully-licensed and insured
Qualified under DOT regulations
20+ years of experience
Telehealth and in-person availability
Outstanding Google reviews
Same-day and after-hours scheduling possible
Supportive, judgment-free environment

Service Area

Serving safety-sensitive employees in a wide range of industries, including construction workers, linemen, truck drivers, welders, pilots, mariners, railroad conductors, and many other essential roles.

Whether you work on the road, in the air, at sea, or on a land job site, we provide the same level of expert guidance and compliance support to help you return to work safety.

DOT SAP services with Misti Luke are available statewide in Oklahoma through secure a live video call, making it easy and convenient to complete the Return-to-Duty process no matter where you are located. Evening and weekend appointments available.

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