Reasonable suspicion testing requires immediate action—and Charlotte DOT Exam Center is equipped to respond. Dr. Alan Tebby and Dr. Lemuel Byrd have processed these time-sensitive tests since 1991, backed by 84+ combined years of clinical expertise. Our FMCSA-certified facility handles reasonable suspicion cases with the discretion and efficiency they demand. That’s one reason we maintain a 4.8-star rating among Charlotte’s CDL community.
Unlike random testing or pre-employment testing, reasonable suspicion testing is triggered by human observation—a trained supervisor who notices something concerning about a driver’s behavior, appearance, or conduct. This makes it both the most subjective DOT testing category and one of the most legally sensitive for employers and drivers alike.
Reasonable suspicion situations are sensitive for everyone involved. Our dedicated DOT facility provides a professional environment where drivers receive respectful treatment while employers get the compliant testing they need. We handle these cases daily—not as awkward exceptions to normal clinic operations.
Reasonable suspicion testing occurs when a trained supervisor observes specific, contemporaneous, articulable observations about a driver’s appearance, behavior, speech, or body odors that indicate possible drug use or alcohol misuse. Federal regulations under 49 CFR 382.307 govern this testing category.
The key legal standard is that observations must be specific and articulable—not hunches, rumors, or general concerns. The supervisor must be able to describe exactly what they observed that raised concern.
Trained supervisors look for specific indicators across multiple categories:
No single observation automatically requires testing. Supervisors evaluate the totality of observations, considering whether behaviors are consistent with the driver’s normal demeanor or represent unusual changes.
Not just anyone can order reasonable suspicion testing. Federal regulations require specific training:
| Training Component | Minimum Duration | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Recognition | 60 minutes | Physical and behavioral signs of drug use |
| Alcohol Recognition | 60 minutes | Physical and behavioral signs of alcohol misuse |
An untrained supervisor cannot make reasonable suspicion determinations. If no trained supervisor is available, testing cannot proceed under this category—though other testing categories might still apply depending on circumstances.
FMCSA audits verify supervisor training documentation. If your company orders reasonable suspicion testing and cannot produce training records for the supervisor who made the determination, you face compliance violations regardless of test results.
When a supervisor observes signs indicating possible impairment:
Trained supervisor identifies specific, articulable signs of possible drug use or alcohol misuse during the current work shift.
The driver must not perform any safety-sensitive functions until the testing process is complete. This is immediate—not after the test results.
The driver is directed to a collection site for drug testing, alcohol testing, or both—depending on observed signs.
The driver should not drive themselves to the collection site if impairment is suspected. Employers arrange safe transportation.
Supervisor documents observations in writing within 24 hours. This record should detail specific behaviors, times, and circumstances observed.
Drivers have specific rights during the reasonable suspicion process:
However, you cannot refuse testing. Refusal is treated as a positive result with full consequences including Clearinghouse reporting.
A negative reasonable suspicion test doesn’t mean the supervisor made a mistake. The supervisor acted appropriately based on observations that warranted concern. The driver returns to duty, and the test documents that safety-sensitive functions were appropriately protected.
Employers should not retaliate against supervisors for ordering tests that return negative—doing so discourages appropriate safety monitoring.
A positive reasonable suspicion test carries the same consequences as any other positive DOT drug test:
For complete information, see our page on failed DOT drug test consequences.
Employers and supervisors should avoid these common errors:
Observations must be first-hand and current-shift. Second-hand reports or past behavior don’t meet the standard.
Only supervisors with documented training can make reasonable suspicion determinations.
Observations must be contemporaneous. You can’t order testing based on yesterday’s behavior.
Written observations within 24 hours are required. Verbal-only documentation creates compliance gaps.
No. Only supervisors who have completed the required training (60 minutes on drug recognition and 60 minutes on alcohol recognition) can make reasonable suspicion determinations. The supervisor must have directly observed the concerning behavior during the current work shift.
You must still comply with the testing order. Refusal is treated as a positive result. If you believe the determination was improper, document your concerns and address them through company grievance procedures or legal channels after complying with the test.
No. Reasonable suspicion must be based on direct, first-hand observations by a trained supervisor. Reports from coworkers might prompt a supervisor to observe more closely, but the determination must be based on what the supervisor personally observes.
Testing should occur as soon as practically possible. For alcohol testing, there’s an 8-hour window—if testing can’t occur within 8 hours, the employer must document why. Drug testing has a 32-hour window but should still occur promptly. Delays weaken the connection between observation and results.
Medical conditions can be discussed with the Medical Review Officer after testing. However, you must still comply with the test. The MRO review process allows for legitimate medical explanations. Documented conditions like diabetes, certain medications, or neurological issues may explain observations.
The standard DOT collection process doesn’t include witnesses beyond the collector. However, you can document your experience and any concerns. The supervisor’s written observations and your test results create the official record.
When your company needs immediate reasonable suspicion testing, Charlotte DOT Exam Center responds quickly. Call ahead so we can prioritize your arrival and minimize wait time during these time-sensitive situations.
Open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Saturday from 9 AM to 12 PM.
Call 704-544-3494 or visit us at 8415 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite 102, Charlotte, NC 28226.
For comprehensive information about all DOT drug testing requirements, visit our main DOT Drug Testing Charlotte NC hub page.