What About Step 6 in the Clearinghouse? What’s Important to Know
Introduction: Why the Clearinghouse Matters
The FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a national database that tracks CDL drivers’ drug and alcohol program violations. If you’re in the DOT Return-to-Duty (RTD) process, every step matters — and Step 6 is often overlooked but critical for regaining full safety-sensitive driving privileges.
At Delivered2Choices, we guide drivers and employers through compliance, ensuring every step — including Step 6 — is completed correctly.
What is Step 6 in the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
Step 6 is the final step in the DOT Return-to-Duty process. It confirms the CDL driver has successfully finished all follow-up testing as outlined by the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).
Completion of all follow-up drug/alcohol tests per the SAP plan
Employer’s documentation of completion in the Clearinghouse
Final clearance for the driver to return to full-duty status
Why Step 6 is Crucial for Drivers and Employers
If Step 6 isn’t reported correctly, drivers may remain “stuck” in the Clearinghouse. This can lead to:
Delayed reinstatement of driving privileges
Incomplete Clearinghouse records
Legal and compliance risks for both driver and employer
Benefits of Proper Step 6 Completion:
✅ Clean record in the FMCSA database
✅ No red flags for future employers
✅ Full eligibility for safety-sensitive positions
Who is Responsible for Reporting Step 6?
Step 6 must be reported by the employer — or the C/TPA if the driver is a bona fide owner-operator.
Driver: Completes all SAP-required tests
SAP: Designs the follow-up plan (does not report completion)
Employer/C/TPA: Reports the final test completion in the Clearinghouse (only the last test is reported, not each one)
👉 If a driver changes employers before finishing the plan, the testing plan transfers to the new employer until completion.
Common Issues with Step 6 Completion
Drivers often complete their follow-up plan but remain non-compliant due to reporting errors. Common issues include:
Employers forgetting to update the Clearinghouse
Miscommunication between past and new employers
Missed or late tests in the SAP plan
Requests for SAP documents by unauthorized third parties
💡 Tip: If your status shows incomplete after testing, contact your employer or Delivered2Choices immediately.
How Delivered2Choices Supports You Through Step 6
At Delivered2Choices, we ensure nothing is missed in the RTD process. Our Step 6 support includes:
Verifying proper administration of the follow-up plan
Helping employers report test completion accurately
Assisting drivers in staying fully compliant
Preventing delays in reinstatement
We make sure your journey from violation to restoration is smooth, compliant, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Step 6 in the Clearinghouse?
A: The final step showing a driver has completed all SAP follow-up testing.
Q2: Who reports Step 6?
A: Employers or C/TPAs — not drivers or SAPs.
Q3: Can drivers update Step 6 themselves?
A: No. Only employers or C/TPAs can update it.
Q4: What happens if Step 6 isn’t reported?
A: The driver’s record stays incomplete, blocking safety-sensitive work.
Q5: Can Delivered2Choices help if my employer hasn’t reported?
A: Yes, we help bridge communication and ensure proper reporting.
Take Control of Your Compliance Journey with Delivered2Choices
🚛 Avoid costly delays and get back on the road faster with Delivered2Choices. Whether you’re a driver completing RTD or an employer managing compliance, we provide:
Fast, Accurate Documentation
👉 Contact Delivered2Choices today to finish your Return-to-Duty process the compliant way.
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