Marijuana And Commercial Driving

Over the past decade many states have passed laws that allow for the use of marijuana for medical reasons. several states have even legalized marijuana for recreational use.  I want to clear up any confusion drivers have about the ability to drive commercially while using marijuana.

According to Federal law the use of marijuana for any reason is disqualifying. Marijuana is still a schedule 1 drug in the same category as cocaine and methamphetimine, Until the federal government changes the schedule of marijuana drivers cannot be medically certified.

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/faq/can-driver-be-qualified-if-taking-prescribed-medical-marijuana

If you have used marijuana in the past two years, you will be required to pass a Non- DOT drug screening prior to being issued a medical certificate. This will be an additional cost to the DOT physical fees.

​In the past year the use of synthetic urine during DOT physicals has risen dramatically.  Presenting synthetic urine during a DOT physical or drug screening  will result in immediate failure of the DOT physical or drug test. The person submitting the synthetic urine  will be required to complete a substance abuse program before being certified. Substance abuse programs cost thousands of dollars out of the drivers pocket and will prevent the driver from driving commercially until the completion of the program. 

​The best advice I give for drivers is to not use marijuana at anytime. Using marijuana is not worth risking your livelihood.

​Dr. Rodgers