How Long Does It Take to Get Out of Prohibited Status and Return to Duty?
- Get Out of Prohibited
- Oct 17
- 3 min read
If you’ve failed a DOT drug test, refused a test, or received a Clearinghouse violation, your CDL is now in prohibited status. That means you cannot legally operate a commercial vehicle until you complete the FMCSA Return-to-Duty (RTD) process.
One of the most common questions drivers ask is:
👉 “How long does it take to get out of prohibited status?”
The answer depends on how quickly you move through the required steps — and whether you get the right help along the way.
The Short Answer: It Depends on You
There’s no fixed number of days set by the FMCSA. The Return-to-Duty process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on:
How quickly you contact a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)
The length of your SAP treatment or education program
When you schedule and pass your Step 5 Return-to-Duty drug test
How long it takes for your status to update in the FMCSA Clearinghouse
Drivers who act fast — often with support from a Third Party Administrator (CTPA) — can get cleared much sooner.
Step-by-Step: What You Need to Do to Get Out of Prohibited Status
1. Complete a SAP Evaluation
After your violation, the FMCSA requires you to meet with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).
The SAP determines what kind of treatment, education, or counseling you need.
The sooner you complete this step, the faster your timeline begins.
2. Finish the SAP Program
This can take a few days or several weeks depending on your assigned plan. Once done, your SAP will officially clear you to take your Return-to-Duty test CDL.
3. Pass the Step 5 Return-to-Duty Drug Test
This is the test that allows you to re-enter the workforce.
Schedule your rtd drug test near me as soon as your SAP gives the green light.
Once you pass, your Clearinghouse status will update from “Prohibited” to “Not Prohibited.”
4. Wait for Clearinghouse Update
Once your results are submitted, the FMCSA Clearinghouse typically updates your record within 3–5 business days. At that point, employers will see your CDL as valid again, and you’ll officially be out of prohibited status.
How a Third Party Administrator (CTPA) Can Speed It Up
Many drivers use a CTPA (Consortium/Third Party Administrator) to manage the Return-to-Duty process. A CTPA can:
Help you schedule your RTD drug test quickly
Ensure your SAP results and test data are uploaded correctly
Track your progress in the Clearinghouse
Prevent paperwork or reporting delays
Typical Timelines for Getting Out of Prohibited CDL Status
👉 Total average time: 2–6 weeks (if you act promptly).
Tips to Get Cleared Faster
✅ Schedule your SAP evaluation immediately after your violation.
✅ Choose a responsive CTPA to manage testing and reporting.
✅ Stay in contact with your SAP and testing center.
✅ Follow every step exactly — missing even one delay can reset your timeline.
Conclusion: You Control the Timeline
How long it takes to get out of prohibited CDL status depends largely on your action. Drivers who quickly complete their SAP program, pass their Return-to-Duty drug test, and work with a reliable CTPA often get back to work within a few weeks.
Remember: you can recover from a Clearinghouse violation — the key is moving fast, staying compliant, and completing Step 5 of the Return-to-Duty process.
🚀 Ready to Get Out of Prohibited Status Fast?
We can help you every step of the way:
✅ Guidance through the FMCSA Return-to-Duty CDL process
✅ Scheduling for SAP and RTD drug testing
✅ Assistance with Clearinghouse compliance
✅ Help finding RTD jobs once reinstated
👉 Visit GetOutOfProhibited.com today or call us directly:
📞 (832) 384-5689 or (832) 572-5277
Get your CDL back — faster, smoother, and with the right support.
Comments