States with Highest Risk of CDL License Loss: July 2024 Report
- Paula Rojas
- Oct 16, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 13, 2024
The latest July 2024 report from the FMCSA Clearinghouse reveals alarming figures regarding violations in drug and alcohol testing programs for CDL-licensed drivers. These violations put thousands of drivers at risk of losing their licenses, especially in states with a high volume of operations such as Texas, California, Florida, Georgia, and Ohio. Below, we explore the key statistics and the impact this has on the transportation industry.
1. States with the Highest Number of Drivers at Risk
Data from the Clearinghouse shows that certain states have a significantly higher number of CDL-licensed drivers, putting them at a higher risk due to drug and alcohol testing. These states include:
Texas
California
Florida
Georgia
Ohio
2. Top Substances Detected in Positive Tests
At the national level, the Clearinghouse reports more than 287,984 violations since January 2020, with 81% related to controlled substances. The three most frequently detected substances in positive tests are:
Marijuana Metabolite (Δ9-THCA): 159,550 positive tests, of which 20,381 occurred in 2024.
Cocaine Metabolite (BZE): 43,836 positive tests, with 5,852 reported in 2024.
Methamphetamines (MET/MAMP): 23,065 positive results, with 2,712 in 2024.
These substances are particularly common in the high-risk states mentioned earlier.
3. Impact on Drivers: Return-to-Duty (RTD) Process
Drivers who have violated the drug and alcohol program regulations must complete the Return-to-Duty (RTD) process before they can operate a commercial vehicle again. Nationally, the July 2024 report shows that:
175,650 drivers are currently in prohibited status, meaning they cannot operate commercial vehicles.
133,414 drivers have not started the RTD process, increasing the risk of permanently losing their licenses.
25,351 drivers are eligible for RTD testing, and 60,774 have completed the process with negative results.
This high number of drivers in prohibited status puts their ability to work at risk, especially in states with large volumes of drivers like Texas, California, and Florida.
4. Consequences for Employers and Drivers
Both employers and drivers must strictly comply with Clearinghouse regulations to avoid penalties and CDL license loss. Employers must conduct mandatory annual queries and stay informed about any violations in the drug and alcohol testing program.
In states such as Texas and California, transportation companies risk losing a significant number of drivers if immediate steps are not taken to ensure compliance and the completion of the RTD process.
The July 2024 Clearinghouse report emphasizes the importance of staying up to date with drug and alcohol testing programs, particularly in states with higher risk such as Texas, California, Florida, Georgia, and Ohio. Drivers and employers in these states must act quickly to prevent CDL license loss and ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations.
If you or your company operates in one of the high-risk states, don’t wait. Conduct your drivers’ mandatory annual queries and ensure those with violations complete the Return-to-Duty process as soon as possible. Staying compliant will not only protect your business but also ensure road safety.
Don’t lose your license! If you need assistance completing the Return-to-Duty process, contact us today. At Trucking Services and Logistics, we have everything you need to keep your business running smoothly.
📞 Phone: (813) 435-6924
🤳 WhatsApp or Text: (813) 435-6924
🌐 Website: www.dotclearinghousetest.com
References:
FMCSA. (2024). Clearinghouse Monthly Report - July 2024.
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