The Clearinghouse went live with their database on January 6th, 2020. The database contains information regarding CDL holders drug and alcohol violations, it has become a requirement by the FMCSA to use this site to record any violations that have occurred while driving. In an article written by Eleanor Lamb on Transport Topics website, she states that, “the Clearinghouse rule requires drivers to register and consent to carriers checking their record for failed drug tests or refusals to take drug tests.” Clearinghouse is used as a pre-employment driver background check and also carriers must screen their CDL drivers once a year.
The Clearinghouse was created to assist with a long time issue that occurred with drivers. Drivers with drug or alcohol violations with one carrier could get a new job with another carrier, while the new carrier was unaware of the violations with the previous company. This new system allows carriers to feel safe when hiring new CDL licensed drivers. Carriers and third-party administrators are authorized to access the Clearinghouse to check for CDL violations. Only violations that have happened on or after Jan. 6, 2020
Surprisingly, since the Clearinghouse has become part of the FMCSA, over 650,000 drivers have registered and over 8,000 positive substance abuse tests have been detected and identified.
Check out the two articles below that go into detail of the Clearinghouse.
FMCSA Drug Clearinghouse Goes Live, Experiences Connectivity Issues
Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse Detects Nearly 8,000 Violations Since Jan. 6
