Finding a Substance Abuse Professional
The SAP is your gateway back to driving. They evaluate your situation, prescribe treatment, and ultimately determine when you're ready to return to duty.
What Is a SAP?
A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) is a DOT-qualified professional who evaluates CDL holders with drug or alcohol violations and monitors their return to safety-sensitive duties.
SAPs can be licensed physicians, psychologists, social workers, or certified addiction counselors who have completed DOT-required training and passed the SAP examination.
Critical point: The SAP cannot provide the treatment they prescribe—this prevents conflicts of interest. They evaluate, prescribe, and verify completion, but the actual treatment must come from a separate provider.
How to Find a SAP
Official DOT Directory
The DOT maintains a searchable database of qualified SAPs. This is the safest way to verify credentials.
SAMHSA Treatment LocatorTelehealth Options
Since 2023, telehealth SAP evaluations are permanently approved. Video evaluations are valid for drivers in remote areas or with scheduling constraints.
Note: Must be real-time video, not phone-only
Employer-Provided List
Your employer must provide you with a list of qualified SAPs. You can choose any SAP from this list or find your own DOT-qualified provider. The choice is yours.
What to Expect
Initial Evaluation
A face-to-face (or video) assessment lasting 1-2 hours. The SAP will ask about your substance use history, the circumstances of your violation, and your personal and family history with substances.
Treatment Prescription
Based on the evaluation, the SAP prescribes an education or treatment plan. This could range from a 16-hour education course to outpatient counseling to inpatient rehabilitation—depending on the severity they determine.
You cannot skip, negotiate, or shorten what the SAP prescribes.
Follow-Up Evaluation
After completing the prescribed program, you return to the SAP. They verify you've successfully completed all requirements and issue a "Notice of Compliance" determining you're eligible for the Return-to-Duty test.
Cost Breakdown
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial Evaluation | $300 - $400 |
| Follow-Up Evaluation | $150 - $200 |
| Full Package (Both) | $400 - $600 |
The driver typically bears SAP costs, not the employer. Treatment costs (separate from SAP fees) vary significantly—from $500 for education-only to $10,000+ for inpatient rehab.
Questions to Ask Before Booking
Are you DOT-qualified?
Ask for their SAP certification number and verify it. Not all addiction counselors are DOT-qualified.
What's the total cost?
Get pricing for both initial and follow-up evaluations upfront. Some SAPs offer package pricing.
Do you offer telehealth?
If you're in a remote area or need scheduling flexibility, video evaluations are now permanently approved.
How quickly can you schedule?
Time is money when you're out of work. Ask about availability for both initial and follow-up appointments.
Red Flags: Avoid These SAPs
Promises quick or easy completion
The SAP process is federally regulated. Anyone promising shortcuts is either lying or not legitimate.
Phone-only evaluation
DOT requires face-to-face or video evaluation. Phone-only is not compliant and your evaluation may be rejected.
Not on DOT qualified list
Always verify credentials. An unqualified evaluation wastes your money and time—you'll have to start over with a legitimate SAP.
Offers to provide treatment themselves
SAPs cannot provide the treatment they prescribe—it's a conflict of interest. They can recommend providers but must not be the same entity.
Related Guides
Sources & Official Resources
Information on this page is sourced from DOT SAP regulations.
- 49 CFR Part 40 Subpart O - Substance Abuse Professionals
- DOT SAP Guidelines
- FMCSA Return-to-Duty Process
Last updated: January 8, 2026
Need Help Finding a SAP?
A CDL attorney can recommend reputable SAPs in your area and help ensure you complete the process correctly the first time.
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