FMCSA Announces Clearinghouse Updates

By now motor carriers and CDL drivers alike should be accustomed to the FMCSA Clearinghouse registration and query process.  Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse (dot.gov)

The Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced that as of March 8, 2023, there are changes to the Clearinghouse query notifications.  Going forward, the FMCSA will notify employers if there is a change to a driver’s Clearinghouse record up to twelve months following a driver query.

What does this mean to the employer/carrier?

The employer should complete a follow-on query (with driver consent) within 24 hours to determine if additional action is required.  This may include prohibiting the driver from safety-sensitive functions (i.e., driving a CMV). 

It should be noted that updates may include information such as an updated return-to-duty status, a removed violation, or a new violation) recorded in their Clearinghouse record.  This is essential to ensure proper compliance and authorization for a driver to operate your CMV.

Information can be found from the FMCSA at Showing you results for: “How is an employer notified of changes” – Frequently Asked Questions (dot.gov)

Do you have questions regarding the FMCSA Clearinghouse? Visit these Innovise blog links:

FMCSA Releases Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse Summary (trustinnovise.com)

Don’t Forget About FMCSA Clearinghouse Requirements (trustinnovise.com)

Also, you can visit the FMCSA Page at Frequently Asked Questions (dot.gov)

Your Innovise Risk Control team can assist you with your DOT Risk and exposures.