Introduction: Why the Clearinghouse Matters
The FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a national database that tracks CDL drivers’ drug and alcohol program violations. If you’re navigating the Return-to-Duty (RTD) process, understanding each step is critical — and Step 6 is often the most overlooked, yet one of the most important for achieving full compliance and regaining safety-sensitive driving privileges.
At Delivered2Choices, we help drivers and employers stay compliant with DOT regulations, including proper documentation and reporting for each step in the RTD process — including Step 6.
What is Step 6 in the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
Step 6 is the final step in the DOT Return-to-Duty process. It indicates that the CDL driver has successfully completed all Follow-Up Testing as required by the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). Once completed, the employer must report the last of the follow-up tests in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
Step 6 Includes:
- Completion of all follow-up drug and/or alcohol tests as outlined by the SAP
- Employer’s official documentation of the plan’s completion in the Clearinghouse
- Final clearance allowing the driver to return to full-duty status
Why Step 6 is Crucial for Drivers and Employers
Failure to properly complete and report Step 6 can lead to:
- Delayed reinstatement of full driving privileges
- Incomplete records in the Clearinghouse
- Legal and compliance risks for both drivers and employers
Benefits of Proper Step 6 Completion:
- Clean, compliant driver history in the FMCSA database
- No red flags for future employers
- Full restoration of eligibility for safety-sensitive positions
Who is Responsible for Reporting Step 6?
The responsibility for updating Step 6 in the Clearinghouse lies solely with the employer — or if bonafide owner operator – the C/TPA not the driver or the SAP.
Key Roles:
- Driver: Must follow the SAP’s instructions and complete all required tests.
- SAP: Designs the Follow-Up Testing Plan but does not report completion.
- Employer: Must log the successful completion of the testing plan in the Clearinghouse. Only the LAST of the follow-up tests are entered into the Clearinghouse, not all of them, just one (1).
- Employer to employer: If a driver moves companies prior to the testing plan completion, the plan moves from employer to employer until completed. Testing Plan moves from Employer to Employer
At Delivered2Choices, we work closely with both drivers and employers to make sure no step — including Step 6 — is missed or improperly documented.
Common Issues with Step 6 Completion
Many drivers complete their follow-up tests but remain “stuck” in the Clearinghouse because of employer reporting delays or oversights. Here are common problems:
- Employer forgets to update Step 6 in the database
- Miscommunication between new and former employers when a driver changes jobs
- SAP plans not being followed exactly (e.g., missed or late tests)
- Third-parties requesting the plan from the SAP when it only goes to the Designated Employer Representative (DER) or the C/TPA if bonafide owner operator with their own truck/business.
Tip: If you believe you’ve completed all requirements but still show an incomplete status in the Clearinghouse, contact your employer or a trusted service provider like Delivered2Choices immediately.
How Delivered2Choices Supports You Through Step 6
At Delivered2Choices, we specialize in DOT Return-to-Duty compliance, ensuring no detail is overlooked during this highly regulated process. When it comes to Step 6, our services include:
- Verifying the Follow-Up Testing Plan is being properly administered
- Assisting employers in accurately reporting test completion
- Helping drivers maintain compliance throughout the RTD timeline
- Preventing unnecessary delays in full-duty reinstatement
We are committed to helping you complete your journey from violation to full restoration with ease and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Step 6 in the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
A: Step 6 is the final step in the Return-to-Duty process, indicating the driver has completed all follow-up drug and alcohol testing as prescribed by the SAP.
Q2: Who is required to report Step 6?
A: The employer or C/TPA is responsible for reporting the successful completion of Step 6 in the Clearinghouse.
Q3: Can a driver report their own Step 6?
A: No. Only employers or C/TPS’s can update the driver’s status in the Clearinghouse for Step 6.
Q4: What happens if Step 6 is not completed or reported?
A: The driver’s record will remain incomplete, potentially preventing them from working in safety-sensitive roles.
Q5: Can Delivered2Choices help if my employer hasn’t reported Step 6?
A: Yes. We help facilitate communication and documentation between drivers and employers to ensure compliance and accurate Clearinghouse reporting.
Take Control of Your Compliance Journey with Delivered2Choices
✅ Avoid Costly Delays. Get Back on the Road Faster.
Whether you’re a driver ready to return to work or an employer ensuring full compliance with DOT regulations, Delivered2Choices is here to support you every step of the way — including the often-mismanaged Step 6 in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
🔹 Expert Support
🔹 Fast, Accurate Documentation
🔹 Full Compliance with FMCSA Requirements
👉 Contact Delivered2Choices today to complete your Return-to-Duty process confidently and get back on the road — the compliant way.
