At Return to Duty, we help pilots and aviation technicians reclaim their careers after a failed drug or alcohol test.
A failed or refused DOT drug or alcohol test is a serious setback—but it doesn’t have to define your future. At Return to Duty, we know what’s at stake. Your career, reputation, and livelihood are on hold, and the path forward may feel uncertain. That’s where we come in.
If you’re an FAA-regulated pilot, air traffic controller, or aviation technician, DOT regulations require you to complete an FAA-approved Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) program before you can legally return to work. We guide you through every step, providing clarity and support.
With expert guidance and a clear path to compliance, we’ll help you take the next step toward reclaiming your career.
Failing or refusing a DOT drug or alcohol test might feel like the end of the road, but it doesn’t have to be. The FAA return-to-duty process provides a structured path to help you regain compliance and return to your safety-sensitive position.
At Return to Duty, we specialize in FAA SAP evaluations, guiding pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation technicians through every compliance step. Here’s how the SAP process works:
The first step is to schedule a confidential, virtual evaluation. Our SAP evaluators will review your situation, focusing on what you need to complete the SAP program successfully.
Based on their findings, they’ll develop a personalized plan aligned with FAA and DOT guidelines, giving you a clear path forward so you can return to your aviation career with confidence.
Next, you’ll participate in the DOT-mandated education or treatment program. Typically, this takes several weeks to complete. The best part? It’s entirely virtual, allowing you to access resources from anywhere, no matter your location (some cases require prescribed in-person follow-up).
Important: You will pay the treatment provider directly, which is separate from our fees. We do not receive compensation from treatment programs, testing sites, or third-party administrators.
Once you complete your education, the next step is scheduling your final SAP evaluation. In most cases, the full process—including education and evaluations—takes just a few weeks. During this time, your SAP evaluator will verify compliance and update your status with the FAA.
After your final evaluation, you’ll need to pass a return-to-duty drug test ordered by your employer or prospective employer. A negative result is required to resume safety-sensitive duties.
FAA regulations mandate follow-up testing for at least one year. Your SAP assigns a follow-up testing schedule to keep you compliant.
Our SAP evaluations are 100% virtual so that you can complete everything from the convenience of your home or office—no in-person appointments are required.
DOT-Qualified in 50 states
We serve FAA-regulated professionals nationwide, providing expert guidance no matter where you’re located in the US.
No hidden fees
We understand the financial burden that comes with being out of work. That’s why our flat $550 fee covers all SAP assessments, with flexible payment options to make the return-to-duty process manageable.
No Surprise Costs
Flexible Payment Plans Available
At Return to Duty, we understand the stress and uncertainty you’re currently facing. As a veteran-owned business, we also know what it means to show up, stay committed, and rebuild. Our compassionate team of SAP evaluators is here to help you get back to doing what you love—safely and confidently.
Take control of your future—let us help you return to the skies with confidence.
The duration of the SAP process depends on the completion of the required education or treatment program and your final evaluation. In most cases, it can take a few weeks to complete.
If you hold a medical certificate, you must provide the FAA with proof of compliance after completing the SAP program. This includes a letter from your SAP evaluator that confirms you completed all requirements.
Yes, we provide SAP services for all DOT-regulated employees, including CDL drivers and other transportation professionals, ensuring they meet the necessary requirements to return to work.
Failing a return-to-duty drug test means you may not resume safety-sensitive duties. If this happens, you will need to work with your SAP evaluator to understand the next steps, which may include additional education or treatment before you can take another test and be cleared for duty.
For employers:
We don’t just support employees—we also partner with aviation employers who need an efficient, FAA-compliant return-to-duty process for their team. We know this isn’t an easy situation. A failed drug or alcohol test disrupts operations and can create challenges in maintaining morale. You need a clear, reliable path forward that’s going to help your employer get back on track.
We provide a structured, FAA-compliant path to reinstatement. Our fully virtual SAP evaluations help your employees meet federal requirements efficiently so they can return to work and you can keep your team moving forward.
Partner with us for expert guidance, transparent pricing, and a seamless return-to-duty process. Let’s get your employee back to work—safely and compliantly.
At Return to Duty, we’re here to help you navigate this challenging moment. By signing up for our SAP FAA program, you’re taking the first step toward reclaiming your career. As experts in the SAP in the aviation industry, we’re your guide through the FAA return-to-duty process.
Start your journey today so you can get back to what you love—on track and ready to succeed.
Guiding DOT employees and employers through the entire SAP process after a failed or refused drug or alcohol test. With your participation, we will assist in getting you back to work safely and compliantly.
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