Does Werner Enterprises Drug Test?

Drug Testing by Position

DOT-Mandated Testing for All Werner Drivers

Werner Enterprises is a major truckload carrier based in Omaha, Nebraska, operating dedicated, one-way truckload, and intermodal services across North America. All driving positions are DOT-regulated safety-sensitive roles subject to mandatory drug testing under 49 CFR Part 40. This includes OTR (over-the-road) drivers, regional drivers, dedicated route drivers, and intermodal drayage drivers. DOT testing requires a standard 5-panel urine test screening for marijuana (THC), cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP. Testing occurs pre-employment, randomly, after DOT-reportable accidents, upon reasonable suspicion, and before returning to duty after a violation.

Werner Driver Academy and Drug Testing

Werner operates the Werner Driver Academy, a CDL training program for aspiring truck drivers who do not yet have their commercial driver's license. Drug testing occurs before training begins — applicants must pass the DOT urine drug test before they can start the training program. Failing the test disqualifies you from the program. Prospective students should be aware that the DOT test includes marijuana screening regardless of state law, and they need to be drug-free before applying.

Werner's Safety Culture and Drug-Free Workplace

Werner Enterprises has a strong focus on safety and maintains a comprehensive drug-free workplace policy. The company participates fully in the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse, conducting pre-employment and annual queries on all drivers. Werner's safety record is a key part of its business model, and strict drug testing compliance supports that commitment. All employees — including warehouse workers, terminal staff, and mechanics — are subject to post-accident and reasonable-suspicion testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Werner drug test all truck drivers?

Yes. All Werner Enterprises truck drivers are subject to mandatory DOT drug testing. This includes pre-employment testing, random testing, post-accident testing, reasonable-suspicion testing, and return-to-duty testing. The test is a standard DOT 5-panel urine test that includes marijuana (THC).

Does Werner drug test student drivers?

Yes. If you are applying to the Werner Driver Academy CDL training program, you must pass a DOT urine drug test before training begins. Failing the test disqualifies you from the program. The test includes marijuana screening regardless of state legalization.

What type of drug test does Werner use?

Werner uses the DOT-standard urine drug test (urinalysis). The panel screens for marijuana (THC), cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP. Testing is conducted at authorized clinics and collection sites. Some reports suggest Werner may also conduct hair follicle tests for certain positions, though the DOT urine test is the primary method.

Does Werner do random drug tests?

Yes. All Werner CDL drivers are subject to mandatory DOT random drug testing. Federal law requires carriers to randomly test at least 25% of their safety-sensitive driver pool for drugs and 10% for alcohol each year. Selection is computer-generated and unpredictable.

Does Werner check the FMCSA Clearinghouse?

Yes. Werner conducts pre-employment queries in the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse for all driver applicants. If you have an unresolved drug or alcohol violation in the Clearinghouse, Werner cannot hire you for a driving position. Annual queries are also conducted on all current drivers.