Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) Services

A New Beginning Counseling Services provides Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluations and services for employees regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). These services are required when a safety-sensitive employee violates a DOT drug and alcohol testing regulation.

The SAP program is designed to help employees address substance use concerns and determine when it is appropriate for them to return to safety-sensitive duties.

Our role as a Substance Abuse Professional is to provide an objective assessment, education, and treatment recommendations in accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR Part 40).

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Who This Program Is For?

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SAP services are required for DOT-regulated employees who have violated drug and alcohol testing regulations in safety-sensitive positions.

 

This may include employees working in industries such as:

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• Commercial Trucking (FMCSA)

• Aviation (FAA)

• Railroads (FRA)

• Public Transit (FTA)

• Pipeline and Hazardous Materials (PHMSA)

• Maritime (USCG)

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Employees cannot return to safety-sensitive duties until they complete the DOT return-to-duty process with a qualified SAP.​

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The DOT SAP program follows a structured process required by federal regulation.

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1. Initial SAP Evaluation

The process begins with a comprehensive clinical evaluation conducted by the Substance Abuse Professional. During this appointment, the SAP will review the circumstances surrounding the violation and assess substance use history.

Following the evaluation, the SAP will determine the appropriate education and/or treatment recommendations.

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2. Education or Treatment

The employee must successfully complete the education or treatment plan recommended by the SAP.
This may include substance use education, counseling sessions, or other recommended services.

The goal of this step is to address substance-related concerns and promote safe decision-making moving forward.

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3. Follow-Up Evaluation

After the recommended services have been completed, the employee returns for a follow-up evaluation with the SAP.

During this appointment, the SAP will determine whether the employee has successfully complied with the recommended program.

If the employee has met the requirements, the SAP will provide documentation allowing the employer to proceed with the next step in the return-to-duty process.

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4. Return-to-Duty Testing

The employer will arrange a return-to-duty drug and/or alcohol test.

This test must be negative before the employee can resume safety-sensitive duties.

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5. Follow-Up Testing Plan

If the employee returns to work, the SAP will establish a follow-up testing plan for the employer.
This plan requires unannounced drug and/or alcohol testing over a specified period to ensure continued compliance.

Important Information

• The SAP process is required by federal DOT regulations.

• The SAP acts as an independent evaluator, not an advocate for the employee or employer.

• Completion of the SAP process does not guarantee employment or reinstatement.

• The employer ultimately determines whether an employee may return to work.

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Scheduling an SAP Evaluation

If you have been referred for a DOT SAP evaluation, you may contact our office to schedule your initial appointment.

Employers, third-party administrators (TPAs), and employees seeking more information about SAP services may also contact our office for assistance.