DOT Marijuana Testing Update for Truck Drivers
The Department of Transportation recently released an important notice that directly affects truck drivers and other safety-sensitive transportation workers. On December 18, 2025, the President issued an Executive Order directing the Department of Justice to complete the process of moving marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act.
This announcement has raised questions across the trucking industry, especially for drivers, carriers, and owner-operators who are subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing. The short answer is simple: DOT marijuana rules have not changed. But the long-term impact is worth understanding.
What the Announcement Means for DOT Marijuana Testing
The DOT made several points very clear in its notice.
First, marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I controlled substance today. Until the rescheduling process is fully completed, it remains illegal for any safety-sensitive employee to use marijuana.
Second, DOT drug testing rules are not changing. Truck drivers and other regulated workers are still required to test for marijuana under current DOT drug testing regulations.
Third, existing guidance on medical marijuana, recreational marijuana, and CBD products remains in effect. A medical marijuana card does not excuse a positive DOT drug test.
Finally, laboratories, Medical Review Officers, and Substance Abuse Professionals must continue following 49 CFR Part 40 with no changes to their responsibilities.
In other words, nothing changes right now for drivers or carriers.
Schedule I vs Schedule III, What Is the Difference?
Understanding the difference between Schedule I and Schedule III drugs helps explain why this announcement matters.
What Is a Schedule I Drug?
Schedule I drugs are considered to have no accepted medical use at the federal level and a high potential for abuse. Under federal law, marijuana has been in this category for decades.
Because of this classification, DOT regulations treat marijuana as strictly prohibited for safety-sensitive transportation employees.
What Is a Schedule III Drug?
Schedule III drugs are recognized as having accepted medical uses and a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule I drugs. Examples include certain prescription medications that are legal when used under medical supervision.
If marijuana is eventually moved to Schedule III, it would reflect a change in how federal law views its medical use. However, this does not automatically change DOT testing rules.
Will DOT Marijuana Testing Change If Marijuana Is Rescheduled?
This is the most important question for truck drivers.
Even if marijuana is reclassified as a Schedule III drug, the DOT has the authority to maintain stricter standards for safety-sensitive positions. The agency has already stated that its drug testing process and regulations will not change during the rescheduling process.
Historically, DOT drug testing rules focus on safety, not state laws or broader federal drug classifications. Alcohol is legal, yet strictly regulated for CDL holders. Prescription drugs are allowed, but only when they do not impair safe operation.
Marijuana could follow a similar path, or it could remain fully prohibited under DOT rules. At this time, the DOT has made no commitment to change its marijuana testing policy.
What This Means for Truck Drivers and Carriers Right Now
For drivers, the rule is straightforward. Do not use marijuana in any form if you are subject to DOT drug testing. This includes medical marijuana and recreational use, even if legal in your state.
For carriers and owner-operators, this announcement is a reminder to stay compliant. Drug and alcohol testing programs, Clearinghouse reporting, and employee education must continue exactly as they are today.
Any positive marijuana test still results in a violation, Clearinghouse reporting, and the return-to-duty process.
How FCCR Can Help You Stay Compliant
Drug and alcohol testing compliance is already complex, and announcements like this can create confusion. FCCR helps drivers and carriers stay compliant with DOT drug testing requirements, Clearinghouse registrations, and ongoing compliance obligations.
If you have questions about how this update affects your situation, it is best to speak with a live compliance specialist. You can call (208) 888-3227 or email services@fccr.co for assistance.
The DOT has promised to monitor the rescheduling process and update the transportation industry if anything changes. Until then, the safest approach is simple: follow current DOT rules and stay compliant.
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