- DOT Number Registration
- Operating Authority
- BOC-3 Filing
- UCR Registration
- MCS-150 Biennial Update
- Clearinghouse Registration
CLEARINGHOUSE
A federally-mandated database giving employers, drivers, and regulators real-time access to CDL drug and alcohol violation records.
What is FMCSA Clearinghouse?
The FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a secure online database maintained by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It provides real-time access to information about commercial driver drug and alcohol program violations, including positive test results, test refusals, and return-to-duty status.
Launched in January 2020, the FMCSA Clearinghouse was created to improve road safety by preventing commercial drivers with unresolved drug or alcohol violations from operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).
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FMCSA Clearinghouse Compliance is Mandatory
Failing to register or use the FMCSA Clearinghouse correctly can lead to fines and penalties. All DOT-regulated employers are required to use it when hiring new drivers and for ongoing compliance.
- Employers must use the Clearinghouse to run pre-employment queries and annual checks on all CDL drivers.
- CDL drivers must be registered to give electronic consent for an employer to view their records.
- Violations stay in the Clearinghouse for at least 5 years or until successful completion of the return-to-duty process.
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CLEARINGHOUSE FAQ
Are Drivers Required to Register with the Clearinghouse?
While registering with the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH) is not mandatory for drivers, we strongly recommend it. Registration is necessary for drivers to grant consent for pre-employment/full queries and if any violations are reported on them. Essentially, drivers seeking new employment or with reported violations must register. Additionally, drivers are required to designate their Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) to assist with the return-to-duty process. Registered drivers can also access their information in the Clearinghouse.
What information is reported in the Clearinghouse?
The Clearinghouse contains records of:
- Positive drug and alcohol test results
- Refusals to test
- Actual knowledge of use
- Return-to-duty (RTD) status and follow-up testing
How do employers use the Clearinghouse?
Employers must:
- Conduct pre-employment queries before hiring a CDL driver
- Run annual queries for current drivers
- Report any drug and alcohol violations or actual knowledge of use
- Use the system to ensure drivers complete the return-to-duty process
How long does a violation stay in the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
Violations remain in the Clearinghouse for five years or until the driver completes the return-to-duty process—whichever is longer.
What happens if I don’t comply with Clearinghouse rules?
Non-compliance can lead to:
- Civil penalties and fines
- Being placed out of service
- Delayed hiring or disqualification of drivers
Do drivers need to register?
Yes. CDL drivers must register to:
- Give electronic consent for queries
- View their own records
- Start and track the return-to-duty process if needed