2025 DOT Random Testing Rates

The Department of Transportation (DOT) has released the 2025 random drug and alcohol testing rates for all DOT agencies. While the testing rates themselves remain unchanged, recent rule updates introduce new responsibilities for employers, particularly those governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

FMCSA 2025 Random Testing Rates

• Drug Testing Rate: 50%

• Alcohol Testing Rate: 10%

• Rate History: The rates have not changed since 2020. As a result, FMCSA is not required to issue a Federal Register notice for 2025.

New FMCSA Rule Updates

FMCSA recently updated its drug and alcohol testing regulations for CDL holders. These changes require employers to take an active role in managing testing methodologies and ensuring compliance:

• Collection Methodology Responsibility: Employers are now responsible for selecting the type of testing method. Random tests will generally use urine testing, while follow-up tests will utilize oral fluid collection. If an employee experiences a shy bladder or dry mouth during a test, employers must choose a subsequent collection method requiring direct observation.

• Oral Fluid Testing Requirements: Employers must establish business relationships with oral fluid collectors and laboratories, either directly or through service agents. Standing orders must also be provided to collection sites to clarify the required test types and avoid procedural confusion.

• Designated Employer Representative (DER) Availability: DERs must be available 24/7 to address any issues during the collection process. Collectors will rely on DERs to determine refusals and switch collection methods if necessary. Employers should ensure that DER contact information is accurate on the Custody and Control Form (CCF).

• Refusal Clarification: An employee’s failure to appear for a pre-employment drug test or their departure from a collection site before beginning the testing process (e.g., before receiving a cup or device) does not constitute a refusal. Employers must make the final determination of a refusal, and this responsibility cannot be delegated to collectors.

Other DOT Agency 2025 Testing Rates

The random testing rates for other DOT agencies in 2025 are as follows:

• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA):

  • Drug Testing Rate: 25%

  • Alcohol Testing Rate: 10%

• Federal Railroad Administration (FRA):

  • Covered Service:

    • Drug Testing Rate: 25%

    • Alcohol Testing Rate: 10%

  • Maintenance of Way:

    • Drug Testing Rate: 25%

    • Alcohol Testing Rate: 10%

  • Mechanical Employees:

    • Drug Testing Rate: 50%

    • Alcohol Testing Rate: 25%

  • Federal Transit Administration (FTA):

    • Drug Testing Rate: 50%

    • Alcohol Testing Rate: 10%

  • Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA):

    • Drug Testing Rate: 50%

    • Alcohol Testing Rate: N/A

Additional Notes

Employers subject to multiple DOT agencies’ testing rules may combine covered employees into a single random selection pool. Similarly, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) employees can remain in DOT drug testing pools, even though USCG is part of the Department of Homeland Security.

In conclusion, while random testing rates for 2025 remain consistent, the 2024 FMCSA rule updates add procedural complexity for employers. By ensuring business relationships with oral fluid collectors and labs, providing clear instructions to collection sites, and maintaining DER availability, employers can meet their compliance obligations and promote public safety.