Clearinghouse vs Random Drug Testing: What’s the Difference?

A lot of drivers think that being registered in the Clearinghouse means they are covered for drug testing.

That is not true — and this confusion causes many DOT violations.

Let’s break it down simply.

What Is the Clearinghouse?

The FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse is a federal database.

It does not test you.

It only keeps records of:

• Failed drug or alcohol tests

• Refusals to test

• Return-to-duty results

• Follow-up testing

Employers and owner-operators must be registered so the FMCSA can track violations.

If you are not registered, your DOT number can be put out of service.

What Is Random Drug Testing (J2 or Similar Labs)?

A random drug testing program is what actually performs the tests.

Companies like J2, Consortiums, or other labs:

• Place you in a testing pool

• Randomly select you

• Send you to a clinic

• Perform drug and alcohol tests

• Report results

This is what keeps you DOT-compliant on an ongoing basis.

Why You Need Both

Clearinghouse = Record keeping

Random testing (J2, etc.) = Actual testing

You must have:

✔ A Clearinghouse account

✔ Be enrolled in a DOT-approved random drug testing program

Having only one is not enough.

Common Mistake We See

Many drivers tell us:

“I signed up for Clearinghouse so I’m covered.”

But they are not enrolled in random testing, which leads to:

• DOT violations

• Out-of-service orders

• Problems with insurance

• Failed audits

At GLS Insurance, we help clients:

• Register in Clearinghouse

• Enroll in DOT-approved random testing

• Stay compliant for insurance and FMCSA

If you’re not sure you’re set up correctly, we can check it for you.