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What is the driving school’s responsibility for drug and alcohol testing?

The responsibility depends on the school’s relationship to the student:

  • If the driving school employs the student or leases a CMV that is operated in commerce, the school is considered an employer under 49 CFR Part 382 and must comply with all DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements.
  • If the school is not acting as an employer, then the student driver is responsible for meeting DOT testing requirements.

That said, even when not required, it is considered best practice for schools to verify a student’s compliance before permitting them to operate a CDL vehicle. This helps ensure both safety and regulatory alignment.

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