Will Prescribed Marijuana Or CBD Affect My CDL?
For physical exam determinations, CBD products are not considered to be an illegal substance. The use of CBD oils and creams is not disqualifying. Generally speaking, a driver using CBD products can be certified to drive. However, the use of marijuana, prescribed or otherwise is always disqualifying.
CBD Products Are Generally Safe, But Caution Should Be Used
There is a chance that the use of a CBD product will cause a positive result for marijuana on a DOT drug test. It is up to the driver if they want to take the risk but they should be warned.
Can CBD Show Up As Marijuana On A Drug Test?
CBD products contain a minute amount of THC (Marijuana), so it shouldn’t show up as THC in a drug test. However, it is possible for a CBD user to get a positive drug test result. This is more likely to occur if the CBD product is taken orally. It is far less likely if used topically.
A Positive DOT Drug Test Result for THC Will Cause Temporary Downgrade of CDL License
The driver is required to be evaluated by a DOT-Accredited Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and successfully complete a recovery program (if deemed necessary by the SAP) before being medically qualified to drive.
The Best Way To Handle CBD Use Regarding DOT Physicals
Medical examiners should caution drivers about the risk of having a positive result on a drug test. Medical examiners may want to conduct a Non-DOT drug test to verify that the driver will not get a positive result when obtaining a DOT drug test. Drivers should know that although the test was negative, there is no guarantee a future test will produce the same result.
Work with a TeamCME Medical Examiner to provide a Driver Helpful® CDL Physical. They will help guide you through the process of keeping and obtaining your CDL medical card in the safest way possible.
