FTA return-to-duty
FTA SAP evaluations and return-to-duty for public transit employees.
Virtual DOT SAP evaluations throughout New York State, plus New Jersey, Georgia and Massachusetts. Appointments are often available within 24–48 hours after intake and payment.
Who the FTA covers
FTA drug and alcohol rules cover safety-sensitive transit work.
FTA testing rules (49 CFR Part 655) apply to employees of transit agencies that receive federal transit funds, and their contractors, who perform:
- Operating revenue service vehicles, such as buses, subways and light rail
- Operating non-revenue vehicles that require a CDL
- Controlling dispatch or vehicle movement
- Maintaining revenue service vehicles or equipment
- Carrying a firearm for security
Step by step
The FTA return-to-duty process.
1. Removal from duty
You are removed from safety-sensitive transit duties and given a list of qualified SAPs.
2. Initial SAP evaluation
A face-to-face clinical assessment by secure video, with recommendations for education, treatment or both.
3. Education or treatment
You complete every recommendation. Your SAP confirms your participation with the program.
4. Follow-up evaluation
The same SAP confirms you complied and reports to your transit employer.
Return-to-duty test
Your employer directs a return-to-duty test. Drug results must be negative and alcohol below 0.02.
Follow-up testing
At least six unannounced tests in your first 12 months back on duty, for up to five years, as your SAP directs.
Transit employees with a CDL
Holding a CDL can add Clearinghouse requirements.
If you hold a CDL or CLP and your violation falls under FMCSA rules as well, it may be reported to the FMCSA Clearinghouse, which can lead to a CDL downgrade.
Your employer will tell you which rules apply to your position. See the FMCSA page for Clearinghouse steps.
$500 for all professional SAP services.
The fee includes the initial evaluation, individualized recommendation, required initial report, follow-up evaluation, compliance report and follow-up testing plan. Outside education or treatment, laboratory or return-to-duty testing, and third-party fees are not included.
Several payment options are available. If your employer’s employee assistance program is through Revive (formerly BHS), you might be eligible to have your SAP services covered. Proactive Wellness is a contracted Revive provider: call Revive at 800-327-2251 and ask for Nikita Banks, LCSW, SAP by name, or ask us to help you check.
Other DOT agencies
Return-to-duty guidance for every DOT agency.
All DOT SAP services
Pricing, scheduling and the full return-to-duty process for every DOT agency.
FMCSA: commercial drivers
CDL truck and bus drivers, school bus and passenger carriers.
FAA: aviation
Pilots, mechanics, flight attendants, dispatchers and air traffic controllers.
FRA: railroads
Engineers, conductors, dispatchers, signal and maintenance-of-way workers.
PHMSA: pipelines
Covered pipeline and LNG operations, maintenance and emergency response.
USCG: maritime
Credentialed mariners and crew in safety-sensitive vessel positions.
Transit questions
FTA return-to-duty answers.
Does the FMCSA Clearinghouse apply to transit workers?
Only when FMCSA rules also cover your position, typically when you hold a CDL. Ask your employer which rules apply to you.
Can I keep working while I complete the SAP process?
You cannot perform safety-sensitive duties until return-to-duty requirements are met. Your employer may offer duties that are not safety-sensitive.
Who orders my return-to-duty test?
Your transit employer arranges the test. A successful follow-up evaluation alone does not clear you to return.
What if I don’t complete my SAP recommendations?
You cannot pass the follow-up evaluation until you comply, which delays your return. Contact your SAP right away if you’re having trouble.
Are payment arrangements available?
Payment arrangements may be available. Contact our office before scheduling. All arrangements must be confirmed by the practice.
Does the $500 cover the entire process?
The $500 covers all of our professional SAP services: your initial and follow-up evaluations and reports. Education, treatment and testing are separate.
Get back to safety-sensitive transit work the right way.
Your first inquiry is free. Appointments may be available within 24–48 hours after intake review and payment.