USCG-Maritime

46 CFR Part 16 · 49 CFR Part 40

USCG Maritime Drug & Alcohol Testing

Coast Guard-compliant drug testing programs for maritime employers, vessel operators, and credentialed mariners. We handle enrollment, random selections, results reporting, and recordkeeping under 46 CFR Part 16 and 49 CFR Part 40.

EZDOT, LLC

The U.S. Coast Guard requires drug and alcohol testing for all crewmembers holding a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and those performing safety-sensitive duties aboard regulated vessels.

Years Experience

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Certified DOT Experts

Trusted by companies nationwide for over 20+ years.

What's Included

Consortium enrollment and management
Random selection pool administration
Pre-employment testing coordination
Post-accident and reasonable suspicion testing
MRO (Medical Review Officer) services
Audit-ready recordkeeping
Dedicated compliance specialist
Online employer portal access

Who Must Comply?

The U.S. Coast Guard requires drug and alcohol testing for all crewmembers holding a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and those performing safety-sensitive duties aboard regulated vessels.

Vessel Operators

Companies operating inspected vessels in U.S. waters with crewmembers holding MMCs.

Credentialed Mariners

All individuals holding a Merchant Mariner Credential performing safety-sensitive duties.

Towing Vessel Operators

Operators of towing vessels subject to Coast Guard inspection and crewing requirements.

Offshore Facilities

Operators of offshore oil and gas facilities with personnel performing safety-sensitive functions.

How it works

Required Test Types

Federal regulations require specific testing under defined circumstances. EZDOT, LLC, manages all of them.

Pre-Employment

Required before a mariner first performs safety-sensitive duties. Must receive a negative result before starting work.

Random Testing

Minimum 50% of covered employees tested annually for drugs. EZDOT manages your random pool and tracks your selection rate.

Post-Accident

Required following a serious marine incident as defined by 46 CFR Part 4. Testing must occur as soon as practicable.

Reasonable Suspicion

When a trained supervisor observes behavior or appearance consistent with drug or alcohol use.

Return-to-Duty

Required before a mariner returns to safety-sensitive duties following a violation.

Follow-Up

Unannounced testing following return-to-duty, as directed by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

Compliance Checklist

Everything you need to stay compliant — EZDOT handles all of it on your behalf.

Program Setup

Testing Operations

Recordkeeping

Regulatory Resources

EZDOT Pro Tip: The USCG requires that your random testing rate be at least 50% for drugs annually. Our system automatically tracks your selection rate and alerts you if you're falling behind — so you're never caught off guard during an audit.

46 CFR Part 16 — Chemical Testing

The primary regulation governing drug testing for merchant mariners. Covers who must be tested, when, and how results are handled.

View official resource →

USCG Drug Testing Program

The Coast Guard's official guidance on chemical testing requirements for commercial vessel operators and credentialed mariners.

View official resource →

Frequently Ask Questions

Do I need to drug test if I only have one credentialed mariner?

Yes. Any employer with credentialed mariners performing safety-sensitive duties must have a compliant drug and alcohol testing program. Joining a consortium like EZDOT is the most cost-effective way to meet this requirement.

What drugs are tested under USCG regulations?

The USCG requires a 5-panel drug test covering marijuana (THC), cocaine, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), and amphetamines/methamphetamines.

How quickly do I get test results?

Negative results are typically reported within 24 hours. Non-negative results go through MRO review, which may take 1-3 additional business days.*

* Most test results are received within 3 business days; however, in certain circumstances, results may take longer.

What happens if a mariner tests positive?

A positive test result requires immediate removal from safety-sensitive duties. The mariner must be evaluated by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and complete a return-to-duty process before resuming work.

How does EZDOT handle random selections?

We use a scientifically valid random selection method that meets federal requirements. We notify you of selected employees and coordinate testing — you simply direct the employee to the nearest collection site.

What records do I need to keep?

You must maintain drug test results for 5 years, alcohol test results for 1 year (or 5 years for violations), and random selection records for 2 years. EZDOT’s portal keeps all records organized and audit-ready.