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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Out of CDL Prohibited Status Through the Return-to-Duty Process

  • Writer: Get Out of Prohibited
    Get Out of Prohibited
  • Aug 25
  • 3 min read

If you’re a CDL truck driver who has received a Clearinghouse violation, the road back to driving can feel overwhelming.


Many drivers reach out saying: “Help me, I don’t know where to start.”


That’s exactly what this blog is about—breaking down the FMCSA Return-to-Duty process step by step, helping you avoid scams, and showing you how a Consortium Third Party Administrator (CTPA) like us at GetOutOfProhibited.com can support you in regaining your CDL.



Step 1: Find a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)


When you first get a violation in the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse, you’ll often be notified by your company or receive a CDL downgrade letter from your state’s DMV.


You usually have 30–60 days before your CDL is downgraded to a regular license. To prevent that, you must begin with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).


👉 Tips for Choosing a SAP:

  • Talk to them before designating them in the Clearinghouse.

  • Read reviews to avoid fraudulent SAPs who take money but never file paperwork.

  • Ask upfront about costs for evaluation, treatment, and sending paperwork.



Steps 2–4: SAP Evaluation & Treatment Plan


Once you designate a SAP, they will accept you into their program and perform an evaluation. From there, they create a treatment plan that could include:

  • Online courses (6–8 hours)

  • AA or NA meetings

  • Weekly virtual or in-person sessions

  • Outpatient treatment


After you complete your SAP’s requirements, they release you as eligible for duty. That’s the green light to move to Step 5.



Step 5: Return-to-Duty Drug Test


This is where many drivers call us. Some trucking companies won’t handle Step 5, even if they’ll take you on for Step 6 (follow-ups).


That’s why a CTPA like GetOutOfProhibited.com exists. We act as your representative in the Clearinghouse:

  • We obtain your SAP paperwork.

  • We send you for an observed Return-to-Duty (RTD) drug test (and alcohol test, if required).

  • Once negative results are confirmed (3–5 business days), we upload them into the Clearinghouse.


Your status changes from “Prohibited” (red) to “Not Prohibited” (green). At that point, your DMV is notified and your CDL reinstatement can move forward. Some states require a reinstatement fee, so always check with your DMV.



Step 6: Follow-Up Testing Plan


The final step is managed by your new employer’s DOT drug & alcohol program. If you’re an owner-operator with a DOT number, your CTPA manages your follow-ups.

  • Minimum of 6 tests in the first 12 months (FMCSA requirement)

  • SAP may require 8–10 tests spread across 1–5 years

  • All follow-up tests are observed


Remember: If you miss or fail a follow-up, you may have to start over.


Why Work With a CTPA?


Think of your Clearinghouse record like a credit report. No one can access it without your permission, and it’s critical that everything is filed correctly. As your CTPA, we:

  • Handle all paperwork securely

  • Prevent costly mistakes or delays

  • Keep your records for five years

  • Make sure your CDL gets reinstated quickly



🚛 Ready to Get Out of Prohibited Status?


If you’ve failed a DOT drug test, refused a DOT test, or need to complete Step 5 of the Return-to-Duty CDL process, we can help.


📲 Call or text our team today at 832-384-5689


We’ve helped over 1,000 drivers successfully get their CDLs reinstated. Don’t let a Clearinghouse violation keep you from getting back on the road.

 
 
 

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