Overview
What is the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
The FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a secure, online database that provides real-time information about commercial drivers’ drug and alcohol violations. It is maintained by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and ensures that drivers who violate the DOT’s drug and alcohol program rules complete the Return-to-Duty (RTD) process before operating commercial vehicles again.
The Clearinghouse improves road safety and helps employers make informed hiring decisions by accessing drivers' compliance history.
Who is Required to Use it?
The Clearinghouse applies to all employers and drivers operating commercial motor vehicles under FMCSA regulations, including:
- CDL Drivers
- Employers of CDL drivers (incl. owner-operators)
- C/TPAs (Consortium/Third-Party Administrators)
- Medical Review Officers (MROs)
- Substance Abuse Professionals (SAPs)
Compliance Simplified
What is a C/TPA?
A C/TPA (Consortium/Third-Party Administrator) is a professional service agent that helps employers manage all aspects of the DOT drug and alcohol testing program. This includes managing testing, compliance, Clearinghouse queries, Return-to-Duty monitoring, and more.
What Does a C/TPA Do?
At Skyros Drug Checks Inc, we act as your designated C/TPA, managing your compliance with all FMCSA Clearinghouse requirements.
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Managing Clearinghouse Queries
Full and Limited queries for hiring and annual checks.
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Initiating Return-to-Duty (RTD)
Managing notifications and process requirements.
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Audit-Ready Records
Maintaining compliance records, monitoring follow-up testing, and registration & onboarding assistance.
Frequency
Query Guidelines & Requirements
The two primary types of FMCSA required queries and when you must utilize them.
Full Query
Provides complete details of any drug and alcohol program violations directly from the FMCSA clearinghouse.
When is it required?
- Before hiring a new CDL driver
- When a limited query returns “information found”
- During the Return-to-Duty (RTD) process
- During follow-up testing programs
Limited Query
Checks whether any records exist for a driver without showing full details. A faster way to monitor compliance.
When is it required?
- Annually for all existing drivers
Step by Step instructions
Clearinghouse Registration
Follow these simple steps to register in the Clearinghouse, or let Skyros Drug Checks Inc assist you in achieving seamless compliance.
For Drivers
- Visit clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov
- Click “Register” and select Driver
- Sign in or create an account using Login.gov
- Enter CDL details and personal information
- Complete registration
- Use this account to provide consent for Full Queries by employers
For Employers
- Visit clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov
- Click “Register” and select Employer
- Sign in or create an account using Login.gov
- Enter company details, DOT number, and business information
- If you're an owner-operator, you must designate a C/TPA
- Purchase a Query Plan and complete setup
Designate a C/TPA
- Log in to your Clearinghouse Employer Dashboard
- Click on “Designate C/TPA”
- Search or enter our details:
Skyros Drug Checks Inc - Confirm selection
- You're now connected and compliant!