A substance abuse professional (SAP) is defined as “a person who evaluates employees who have violated Department of Transportation (DOT) drug and alcohol regulations and makes recommendations concerning education, treatment, follow-up testing and aftercare.” An individual must have certain credentials, knowledge, and training to act as a SAP.
They must be a:
- Licensed physician (Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy);
- Licensed or certified social worker;
- Licensed or certified psychologist;
- Licensed or certified employee assistance professional;
- State-licensed or certified marriage and family therapist; or
- Drug and alcohol counselor certified by an organization listed at https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/sap.
A SAP must have knowledge and clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of alcohol and controlled substances-related disorders. They must also know the Part 40 regulations, other applicable DOT agency regulations, and the DOT’s SAP Guidelines.
