- Explanation: This section guides employers and owner-operators through the process of setting up a Consortium/Third Party Administrator (C/TPA) account through the FMCSA Clearinghouse. Most employers and owner-operators must establish a C/TPA to manage drug and alcohol testing, as the Clearinghouse maintains records of all related violations and screenings for Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL) in the USA.
- Steps to Establish a C/TPA Account:
- Obtain a USDOT number, which is required to register with the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- Apply for and receive approval from the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- Log in to the FMCSA Clearinghouse and navigate to the Admin Dashboard.
- Designate a C/TPA for your company. Employers should contact the C/TPA before sending a designation request. (Read about setting up C/TPA account HERE)
- The C/TPA must accept the designation in the Clearinghouse before accessing it on your behalf.
- Ensure the C/TPA is registered and complies with all FMCSA regulations.
- Provide the C/TPA with access to driver information, including valid licenses and testing requirements.
- The C/TPA will coordinate with authorized testing facilities to manage and administer all required tests.
- The C/TPA will send test results directly to the employer and report them to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- For Safety Audits, the motor carrier must provide documentation showing that pre-employment tests are administered, a random testing procedure is in place, and that the motor carrier is registered in the Clearinghouse.
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