Training Requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Many of you have received emails from consulting firms claiming that your supervisors of CDL drivers must be trained in Drug and Alcohol Reasonable Suspicion Testing. These emails often use “scare tactics” to persuade you to purchase their supervisor training courses or webinars.
While it is true that your supervisors are required to be trained under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, the good news is that the FMCSA provides this training at no cost!
Let’s take a closer look at what the regulations actually say about supervisor training for CDL drivers.
(Note: This applies to all motor carriers—both intrastate and interstate.)
Who Is Subject to Supervisor Training for Reasonable Suspicion Testing?
CFR 382.603 – Training for Supervisors
Each employer must ensure that all persons designated to supervise CDL drivers receive:
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At least 60 minutes of training on alcohol misuse, and
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An additional 60 minutes of training on controlled substance use.
This training enables supervisors to determine whether reasonable suspicion exists to require a driver to undergo testing under §382.307. The training must include the physical, behavioral, speech, and performance indicators of probable alcohol misuse and controlled substance use.
Recurrent training for supervisory personnel is not required.
Where Can I Get the Training?
The FMCSA provides the supervisor training in video format, available for free download on their website.
Go to:
👉 FMCSA DOT Drug & Alcohol Supervisor Training Guidance
Then scroll to the bottom of the page and click the final link:
👉 FTA Reasonable Suspicion Training
Please note: The download may take a while depending on video length and quality.
You can also check with your Drug & Alcohol Third-Party Administrator (TPA) to see if they provide this training.
Are There Any Training Requirements Specific to Drivers?
Aside from the Hazardous Materials training requirements for drivers, the following applies to all CDL drivers:
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
ELDT establishes minimum training standards for both interstate and intrastate drivers who are:
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Applying for their initial CDL,
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Upgrading their current CDL, or
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Obtaining a hazardous materials, passenger, or school bus endorsement for the first time.
The prescribed training includes both theory (knowledge) and behind-the-wheel (range and public road) instruction.
The ELDT regulation went into effect on February 7, 2022.
CVSA Roadcheck Places 22% of Vehicles Out of Service
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) conducted its 2025 Roadcheck from May 13–15. Over three days, enforcement personnel in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. conducted
59,000 inspections. Twenty-two percent of commercial motor vehicles were placed out of service (OOS) for violations.
Key findings include:
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Controlled substance–related violations increased by 17% compared to 2024.
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Brake systems and lights remained the top mechanical OOS offenders.
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There was an increase in driver disqualification issues, including expired CDLs and medical certificates.
Focus Area #1: Tractor Protection Systems
The tractor protection system—including the tractor protection valve and anti–bleed-back valve—was under close scrutiny this year. Inspectors found many units with faulty or disconnected valves, creating potential hazards in the event of trailer air loss.
Takeaway: Carriers should ensure their maintenance teams inspect tractor protection systems during every service interval. Brokers should prioritize fleets with strong preventive maintenance programs—a key part of risk management and customer satisfaction.
Focus Area #2: Controlled Substances and Alcohol
This year’s Roadcheck also increased enforcement of drug and alcohol possession violations. Officers reported more drivers being found with marijuana, prescription opioids, or alcohol containers in their cabs.
With FMCSA’s Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse fully implemented, drivers with prior positive tests are under increased scrutiny.
