SAP Evaluation Process

  • Initial Evaluation

    A face-to-face evaluation following the rule violation prompting the start of a return-to-duty process.

  • Referral Process

    Following the initial evaluation, referrals will be made to the appropriate treatment and/or education as part of a personalized plan to fit your unique needs and goals all while complying with DOT requirements/regulations for the return-to-duty process.

  • Follow-Up Evaluation

    Face-to-face assessment to review and assess success in fulfillment of treatment and/or education as outline in treatment plan.

Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) is a person who evaluates employees who have violated a DOT drug and alcohol program regulation and who makes recommendations concerning education, treatment, follow-up testing, and aftercare.


The U.S. Department of Transportation requires alcohol and drug testing of employees who perform safety-sensitive operations. We provide SAP evaluations for truck drivers governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). We also service other DOT regulatory administrations including: FRA, FAA, FTA, USCG and PHMSA. We are keenly aware of the DOT return-to-duty process. We work diligently to ensure the return to duty process is compliant, timely, and proper.

FAQs

When is a SAP evaluation required? § 40.285

As an employee, when you have violated DOT drug and alcohol regulations, you cannot again perform any DOT safety-sensitive duties for any employer until and unless you complete the SAP evaluation, referral, and education/treatment process. The SAP is a required part of the return-to-duty process.

Why Do I Need a SAP?

SAPs act as a neutral party and do not decide if an employee should be terminated or re-hired. Those decisions are up to the employer and their company policy. The SAP’s job is to clinically assess and evaluate to provide a personalized treatment and/or education plan for each individual in alignment with DOT protocol. In DOT cases, public safety is the mission and the primary client. SAPs conduct evaluations to approve employees to return to safety-sensitive duties. 

SAP for the EmployeE

If you are an employee and have failed or refused a DOT drug/alcohol test or have another violation, the first step in returning to work is finding a DOT qualified SAP. Vitality Experience LLC has a qualified SAP ready to assist you in the DOT return-to-duty process, which is sometimes referred to as the SAP referral program. Working with Vitality Experience LLC means your SAP is guaranteed to be DOT qualified. 

SAP for the Employer

Employers are required to provide a list of qualified DOT SAPs for all employees following a failed or refused drug test or other violation. The employee must immediately be removed from safety-sensitive job duties and given the resources to start the return-to-duty process. Vitality Experience LLC has a qualified DOT SAP Provider.