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February 11, 2024
Common Questions About USCG Drug Testing Requirements
A drug test is required for all Coast Guard captain’s licenses except endorsements, duplicates, and Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) certificates. Licenses that require a drug test include the OUPV/Six-pack and 25-ton, 50-ton, and 100-ton captain’s licenses.
Only a Dot 5 Panel (SAMHSA 5 Panel, formerly NIDA 5) test for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, phencyclidine, and amphetamines will be accepted for a captain’s license. Dangerous drugs according to the Department of Transportation rules are marijuana, cocaine, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), and amphetamines.
Only a screening that tests for the five dangerous drugs is accepted. All tests must be conducted in accordance with Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug Testing Programs (TWIC) in Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations CFR Part 40. All qualifying random and periodic drug testing programs must also meet these requirements.
Acceptable proof of meeting the US Coast Guard captain’s license drug testing requirements can be any one of the following:
Random testing letters are not accepted for reserve military members since they are only subject to testing during monthly drills. However, if you’re a reserve or active duty member and passed a required chemical test for dangerous drugs within the previous six months, then you may submit a letter from your command stating this.
Yes, a drug test is required for a USCG captain’s license renewal unless you are renewing sailing or assistance towing endorsements, duplicates, or STCW certificates. The specifications are the same as when you apply for a new captain’s license.
You cannot be awarded a USCG captain’s license if you fail or do not complete the required drug testing. Once you get your captain's license, a positive drug test will result in removal from your crew duties that directly affect the safe operation of a vessel.
Mariners who fail drug tests may opt to go to a Suspension and Revocation (S&R) hearing in front of a federal Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The hearing is administrative and concerns only the mariner’s
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