The following chart outlines the annual minimum drug and alcohol random testing rates established within DOT Agencies for 2026.
| DOT Agency | 2026 Random Drug Testing Rate | 2026 Random Alcohol Testing Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [FMCSA]The random rates did not change for 2026. Because the random rates did not change, FMCSA is not required to publish a notice in the Federal Register. The rate last changed in 2020. | 50% | 10% |
| Federal Aviation Administration [FAA]2026 Random Rate Federal Register Notice | 25% | 10% |
| Federal Railroad Administration [FRA]2026 Random Rate Federal Register Notice | 25% – Covered Service | 10% – Covered Service |
| 25% – Maintenance of Way | 10% – Maintenance of Way | |
| 50% – Mechanical | 10% – Mechanical | |
| Federal Transit Administration [FTA] | 50% | 10% |
| Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration [PHMSA]2026 Random Rate Federal Register Notice | 50% | N/A |
*Please note that the FRA Mechanical annual random alcohol testing rate will be 10% in 2026.
For all other DOT agencies, the 2026 annual random testing rates will remain the same as in 2025.
NOTE: Employers (and C/TPAs) subject to more than one DOT Agency drug and alcohol testing rule may continue to combine covered employees into a single random selection pool.
USCG covered employees may be combined with DOT covered employees in drug testing pools even though the USCG is now part of the Department of Homeland Security.
Last updated: Thursday, January 8, 2026
ODAPC’s website https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/random-testing-rates has been updated to reflect the CY 2026 random drug and alcohol testing rates.
Employers should ensure that their random selection process is scientifically valid, that selections are spread reasonably throughout the year, and that all required testing and documentation are completed within the designated selection periods.
At WorkforceQA, we support DOT-regulated employers with comprehensive drug & alcohol testing program management, including random pool administration, scheduling and coordination, documentation support, and reporting. We also help organizations streamline hiring and compliance workflows by offering background screening and drug & alcohol testing on one platform, backed by experienced program and compliance support teams.
If you have questions about how the 2026 rates impact your program or want help confirming your random testing plan is aligned for the year, our team is here to help.
