Drug Testing FAQs + General Information on DNA and Drug Testing Services

• How much does a drug test cost from Rapid Compliance Services?

FMCSA Federal regulated drug and alcohol tests cost $125 per test if you are part of our RCS – FMCSA Clearinghouse Consortium.  General drug and alcohol testing varies on situation.  Examples of additional costs include but aren’t limited to Mobile Unit Collection, Instant Dip Testing, Post Accident, Holidays, After Hours, and Onsite Services.  Our normal rate is the base rate unless included with a SAP Management program.

This does not include your annual fee for C/TPA services and membership to client portals.  The charge for C/TPA services for the FMCSA Clearinghouse is $199.00 per year and is not pro-rated.  This means your next payment will be due 1 year from the date of your contract.   We work with National Laboratories throughout the United States for the most accurate results. and

Non-DOT / FMCSA regulated drug, alcohol, hair, breath, swab, and dip tests are based off the contract as agreed upon prior to testing.  Call for details.  We have mobile units available for onsite testing.  Call for scheduling.

For DNA testing, each test type listed (Maternity, Paternity, Sibling, etc.) has a minimum of 2 tests per kit.  You will select the types and number of tests at checkout.  The test kits are individually priced and includes everything you need for at home testing.  At home testing can not be used in the court system for legal cases.  The At Home Kits are for Peace of Mind of the parent.  Should you decide to go further and get a legal test done for use in court, please make certain to notify us for your discounted rate when upgrading to the legal kit.

Additional cost factors are based on whether it’s for Legal Use, Peace of Mind, DOT (Federal), Consumer, or Corporate testing.

The tests listed in each of the different Services tabs contain all the tests necessary for conducting the type of test you need.  It really depends on the type of test you are requesting. It is best to look at the content of your shopping cart to determine how many tests are included with the test type you are ordering. Your specific cost, or out of pocket cost if conducted at one of our accredited AABB partner labs, or if it is an out of network clinic may vary.

For the best rates on any of the testing, we ask that you always try to select an in-network clinic near you, the relative in question, the driver, or your employee.

When conducted at a doctor’s office or clinic that is out of network, you can expect to add on an office visit charge, etc. depending on their requirements. As a cost reduction for you, we prefer to use inhouse or partner sites for conducting our testing.  If you choose to select a site that is not in-network, you may have additional charges.

At-home drug tests are available and can cost less than $50 per test, plus shipping; but are not as reliable because a health professional is not conducting the test.  At home tests and Peace of Mind tests can not be used in legal matters for court cases. There are certain legal forms that must be completed for each state, and specific processes completed that are designated for Legal testing. Your final cost really depends on what your specific need is, and what you plan to do with the results.

• The 5-panel drug screen for home use (Dip Test).

We offer an at home 5 panel drug screen – the Safety Sensitive Duties test such as a truck driver may need for pre-employment and Randoms.  This cannot be used as a Federal Test, but can be done as a test after your official test.  We abide by all the federal regulations for conducting a dip test.   If you do this simple dipstick test, you will have a good certainty of whether you will pass your official test.

The Dip Test does NOT replace your Federal Regulated DOT Drug Screen for Random, Pre-employment, Reasonable Suspicion, Return to Duty, or follow up testing.  It is not allowed as any replacement test for your consortium or SAP follow up testing management program.

You can speak with your employer to see if your position is under DOT/FMCSA regulations for safety sensitive workers. These tests can be shipped directly to you as well.  Dip tests are great to find out if you would test negative/positive prior to completing a Federally Regulated type test or for companies conducting their own in-house testing.  These are not for official use and cannot be used for a reason to dismiss employees who have suspected drug use.  Dip tests are for informational purposes only.

• How can I get a drug test From Rapid Compliance Services?

There’s a list of the Drug tests we can supply to you via mail or you can order an appointment online.  See the “Drug Testing & Consortium Services” Tab or the “DNA Services” Tab at top menu bar for creating an order for C/TPA, Consortium, Non-Federal Drug and Alcohol Testing, and Federal Drug testing, Legal, Peace of Mind or Home-Based testing.

Bulk ordering for our corporate locations is available.  If your organization is interested in receiving bulk orders of testing supplies, contact us for more information and price quotes.

Our in network medical testing labs, urgent care centers, retail clinics, primary care doctor offices, and many local pharmacies are available at thousands of locations throughout the nation.  If a driver is involved in an accident and requires an immediate drug or alcohol test, we can do that for you.  We will provide MRO (Medical Review Officer) results to you.

We will contact you for any additional details so that we can schedule an appointment nearest to the location you or your driver need.

While walk-in appointments are typically available both in-house and at our in-network locations, booking a visit online will reduce your wait time and ensure you have your drug test results sooner.

If your employer requires a drug test, consult with them first as they may have a designated place for you to get your drug test completed.

• How does Rapid Compliance Services bill me?

We use only online secured services for all our invoicing and payment services.  This secured site allows all major credit cards, debit cards, and direct bank transfers.  Rest assured your information is completely secure.  Rapid Compliance Services never sells your information to outside service providers.

• Post Accident Fees/Reasonable Suspicion

We offer mobile testing in some areas at an additional cost ($0.70 cpm + services – post accident; anything other than post accident is $0.55 cpm to and from Fresno, CA + services; supplies.  More than 10 miles to/from site add travel fee $95 (7am – 7pm); More than 10 miles to/from site 7pm – 7am add travel fee $125 plus testing as required above.  Travel mileage is always used as a to/from total mileage calculation.

Contaminated tests will be charged an additional fee for re-testing and the MRO notified of our reasonable suspicion.

We also have access to other Mobile units throughout the nation for your convenience.  However, their pricing may vary, we will invoice you as appropriate for Mobile services.  All major credit cards, debit cards, and direct bank transfer is available.

As our services are immediately completed, payments are due upon invoice receipt.  A service fee plus late fees will occur after 7 days unless prior arrangements have been made and communicated to us from the purchaser.

• What types of mobile services are provided?

We offer Mobile drug and alcohol testing for corporate locations, Construction Sites, Mills, Factories, Schools, etc. in the Central California Region and offer Customized Solutions to meet your needs.  Contact us at rapidcomplianceservices@gmail.com, phone:  559-319-8464 or Fax:  559-296-2207.   Any of the tests listed on this site can be done from one of our mobile units.  Costs will vary and appointments are required for one-on-one testing collections.  If a one-on-one testing collection is made, applicable travel fees will be due and payable at time of service unless other arrangements have been made.  Please phone the number above for more information.

• Onsite Direct Employee Representative (DER), Supervisor Representation, Reasonable Suspicion, and Safety Training

Onsite training for your DER (Direct Employee Representative), Supervisor Representative, Reasonable Suspicion Officials for your onsite safety departmental staff is available for 10 or more employees.  This training may be conducted via Zoom or other Online programs.  Instructions for connection and meeting time(s) will be sent to you before training sessions begin.  Regardless of whether the student attends or not, if they are scheduled billing for that student will be processed and payment in full expected.

A company’s DER(s) is/are the person(s) responsible for officially removing the suspected employee whom they have verified is under the influence of drugs/alcohol from safety sensitive duties.  Having anyone else on your staff conducting an employee removal could result in your organization being financially held responsible in the court system.

These Designated Employee Representative positions are mandatory and an FMCSA 49CFR Part 40 certification certificate is given at the completion of the training coursework.

Additionally, monthly safety coursework is mandatory for most corporations.  Once each course is completed, your employees will receive a certificate of participation for employees.

For the Supervisors and above, according to their choice of coursework, they could receive the entire education necessary to develop a drug and alcohol policy/procedure/PIP program for your company.

It’s not only a great person to have onboard, but it is an FMCSA requirement for some organizations.  Call for more information that can be tailored to your needs.

• How can I book a drug test with Rapid Compliance Services?

Regardless of the kind of drug test you are seeking, we can help you book an appointment in most cases. We are not limited to only FMCSA and DNA testing.  We offer a wide variety of different tests, some may not be listed on this site as new tests are made available on an unscheduled basis from our national labs.  Simply give us the location of where your preference is for testing. Be sure to include “drug testing” or “DNA testing” as the reason for visit.  We can do the legwork for you and get a site near you for your testing needs.

• Where can I get a drug test after hours with Rapid Compliance Services?

Outside routine work hours, most testing labs and primary care offices are closed, however, most of the area’s urgent care and retail clinics are open later than typical business hours and on weekends. In some instances, we are able to book an after-hours visit to get prompt, no-hassle care and get your drug test results faster.  However, this is not guaranteed as services and pricing vary from location to location.

Our vast area of coverage is nationwide, which means time-zones differ and so do hours of operation.  We try our best to meet your needs.

• Can I make a same-day appointment for drug testing Rapid Compliance Services?

Same-day and next-day appointments for many drug tests can easily be booked. Keep in mind that the earlier we know about the appointment, the better we will be at accommodating your schedule.  We do not guarantee this service, but will try to best accommodate your specific needs.

For us to better serve your needs, please let us know with as much advance notice of when and where you prefer your testing to be completed. We will search for labs and healthcare providers in the area, find a collection facility or draw station, and book the most convenient time for you. We will be your liaison between you and the scheduling of the appointment.  This helps to guarantee you and any other person testing with your group a smooth and happy testing process.  We can even schedule separate testing dates/times so that both parties can go to the schedule that meets their needs best.

• How do I find the best collection sites for drug testing with Rapid Compliance Services?

If you want to go to a specific location, you can google the address with a simple search of the Google website.  Once you know their address, let us know and we’ll do the work of setting your test, getting directions, billing, etc. for you.  We want you to feel comfortable in knowing this part of the testing process is taken care of in a professional and time saving manner.  We do the work so you can rest easy knowing you don’t have to.  Normally, our patients NEVER pay at the location.  Their bill has been paid prior to arrival at the collection site.  The donor need only show up with their driver’s license and be ready for testing – or bring all legal documentation that has been given to you for testing identification purposes.  Our work is done behind the scenes with the Owner or their representative for FMCSA drug and alcohol testing and that of non-regulated cooperation’s.

• Who should get a federal drug test?

Many employers require pre-employment drug testing prior to being hired. There are six major reasons for having a DOT Drug Sensitive Duty test; they are:  Pre-employment; Post-Accident; Random, Reasonable Suspicion; Return to Duty, and Follow-up testing.

There are many other reasons as well such as: periodic or random drug testing during your term of employment; primary care doctors may order a drug test if they suspect you have a problem with drugs or alcohol, while emergency room doctors may request a drug test if you’re confused, or your behavior seems strange or dangerous while in the ER.  We are here to help you get the test you need.

• How long do drug tests take?

For most drug tests, you can be in and out of the testing center within 30 min. For results, however, it depends on what type of test you are getting done. Urine tests and blood tests could take 1-5 business days for results, while hair testing could take 4-10 business days.  DIP testing is instant and final results can be given within 5 minutes.  DNA testing, which is much more complicated than a simple drug test, can take longer.  Results for DNA testing normally occur within 2 days to 2 weeks.  It depends on the type of test you are requesting and if it’s Peace of Mind or for Legal purposes.

At-home drug testing, as well as some in-clinic tests may offer more rapid initial results, but the final conclusive results will take longer.  For tests such as the DIP test used for urine testing, the 5-panel testing the test results are within 5 minutes.

• Is drug testing covered by my insurance?

If the drug test is a pre-employment requirement or required by your employer, your employer will normally cover the cost of the test and will usually send you to a specific lab or collection site to facilitate the test, however, in most cases employers are not mandated to pay for your testing.  It is not mandated for the employer to pay for SAP management programs.  If a SAP Management Program including the SAP specified Return To Duty and Follow-up testing is required for a safety sensitive position, the employer will first contract us, we will then start the process and bill the employer.  The employer pays us, and then the employer may choose to bill the employee for their costs.  If they so choose, the employer may only charge the employee part, the same as, or even more than our costs.  All three options are viable options for the employer.

Our advice:  check before your test!  Your employer (prospective employer) may have restrictions on when they pay for any testing.  Additionally, if you choose to have your insurance carrier pay for these services, It is your responsibility as the one going through the SAP Management program to submit all information to your insurance carrier.  Even then, your insurance carrier may decide on a result-based testing program that specifies whether the insurance company pays or not and at what rate.  The main take-away concerning insurance is you as the donor will be responsible for submitting the paperwork to the insurance carrier, and any monies paid to you are between you and your insurance carrier.

• Who Pays?

Drug tests for employment related issues and DNA are typically out of pocket, and therefore not covered by insurance. It is possible, depending on your plan, that you could submit the receipt to your insurance requesting reimbursement.  Please note:  You are responsible for submitting the required information to your insurance company for re-imbursement of charges.  If you need to know, ask your insurance company before you test.  If covered, you are responsible for getting the paperwork to your insurance company.

• What is the most accurate drug test?

There are many ways to collect a sample for a drug or alcohol test including hair, saliva, breath, bodily fluid, and sweat, but blood tests are the most accurate. Blood tests are the most intensive and costly given that they are processed by a trained phlebotomist (pronounced: fla-bot-o-must) and analyzed in a lab, and usually the variety that is required by some Legal testing.  FMCSA does not require blood or hair specimen testing.  The current drug and alcohol tests that have approval of the FMCSA is:  Urine, Saliva, and breath.  Anything other than these 3 types are not approved by the FMCSA as of today’s date.

An example of when blood testing is chosen is if a mother chooses to have a prenatal blood test drawn to determine the genetic makeup / chance for disease / or sex of their unborn child.  This is a non-invasive blood test, that is done at a clinic to test for DNA sequencing.  With a simple blood draw by a qualified phlebotomist, Prenatal blood testing can be done as early as the 7^th week of pregnancy.

• How long does it take to get DNA test results at home?

DNA results are typically available within 3 – 5 business days for routine paternity cases.  Results may be delivered via email, USPS, or express shipper.  If you’re just wanting to know for your Peace of Mind, you can get your results normally within 2 business days after it arrives at our lab for processing.  The method you receive your results is up to you!

• How accurate is a home paternity test?

At-home paternity tests “Peace of Mind” tests are normally very accurate.  Remember though, they are not admissible in court.  You’ll get results of 99.99% accuracy of whether the man is or is not the person’s biological father.  It’s as easy as doing two cheek swabs of saliva and returning in their sterilized containers.  As long as the donor minimum of 1 hour prior to testing doesn’t deliberately eat, smoke, chew gum, brush their teeth, or touch the testing materials, all should be great with the sample.   If there is any doubt of your testing supplies or kit, please contact us for immediate replacement of the product. If the donor has eaten, drank fluids, kissed, brushed their teeth, smoked, or done anything else to try to mask their cheek-cell samples, then it is better to wait a full hour prior to proceeding with the DNA test collection.  None of these things can change the DNA sample, however in certain instances, it could mask the results of any DNA test except blood draw.  The best time to test is when the person has just woken up from sleep.

• Why does the result state only state 99.99% and not 100% ?

This is known as a Combined Direct Index or Combined Paternity Index.  This means that the probability of paternity is 99.9%.  Broken down, it means the man who has been tested is 99.99%  more likely to be the biological father of the child in question than any other random man.

• How long does saliva DNA last on a Swab?

DNA taken from Saliva if properly stored in it’s paper envelopes and kept in a cool, dry place, can be viable up to 6 months from the date taken.

• I’m the father and want to test the child without her knowledge.  Can I?

Yes.  IF you are listed on the birth certificate and are considered the legal father, then you do not need the mother’s permission to test the child’s DNA.  A man can sue a child’s mother if she knowingly lied about him being the father.  Check your state’s statue of limitations for more information and what you can do to disestablish paternity if that’s what you so choose to do.  However, you must have a LEGAL paternity test done, not just the At Home Peace of Mind Paternity test to be able to use the results in court.