Drug tests for US transport workers will use direct observation if new oral fluid tests are not available

The US Department of Transportation is changing its drug testing rules for transport workers. If a new oral fluid test is required but not yet available, employers must use directly observed urine tests instead.

The Department of Transportation has been trying to roll out oral fluid drug tests as an alternative to urine tests. This rule change means that until those new tests are widely available, employers cannot simply skip testing or use a less reliable method. It ensures that the standard for drug testing remains high, even during the transition to new technologies.