Updated October 2026. This replaces the 2020 article’s broad CBD claims and old sample forms with a direct link to DOT’s notice.
DOT drug tests look for marijuana—not CBD. But a CBD product can contain THC, and a label is not a reliable guarantee of its THC content. That is the risk for a driver or other DOT-regulated safety-sensitive worker who is subject to testing.
What DOT actually says
In its CBD notice, DOT warns that some CBD products may contain more THC than their labels state. DOT also says CBD use is not an acceptable medical explanation for a laboratory-confirmed marijuana positive result. A medical review officer applies the applicable testing rules; a worker’s statement that they used only CBD does not, by itself, turn that result into a negative.
The notice advises DOT-regulated safety-sensitive employees to exercise caution when considering CBD products. It does not say every CBD product is illegal, and it does not replace the underlying testing rules. Do not use this article as medical advice or as a substitute for your employer’s policy.
What a carrier should do
Explain the testing policy to covered employees before an issue arises. If a result is reported, use the applicable DOT and employer procedures, including medical-review and employee-notification steps; do not assume that an old generic form completes those duties. For help defining the administrative scope of a program, see LBC’s drug-testing services and confirm the current services and responsibilities with us.
Primary source: U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance, “CBD” Notice (February 18, 2020). The former 2020 LBC driver memos and notification-form link are not presented here as current instructions.
