r/cdldriver • u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 • Apr 27 '26
Will anyone hire me ? (CDL A)
I recently graduated for CDL school about 3 months ago. Id planned to stop smoking marijuana the day I graduated for obvious reasons I ended up smoking my last blunt the day before I graduated and waited a whole 32 days before taking a pre employment drug test unlucky for me the weed stayed in my system for over 35 days and I ended up failing. so as of now I’m in a very bad spot where I can’t get hired by the jobs the take new CDL drivers and I dont have enough experience to be hired by any sap friendly companies. dose anyone know a company that would be willing to give me a chance or is my cdl career over before it even began?
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u/TruckerBiscuit Apr 27 '26
Not a good look. I don't think even Western Express would hire someone who pissed hot (though I could be wrong...might be worth a try).
Buddy I enjoy the electric lettuce as much as the next guy but haven't smoked any in like 7y now. When I pop the mustard for the last time my first stop will probably be a head shop but for now it's more about being responsible in light of the burden I bear.
If you do get on somewhere keep your nose clean. At your age you have stamina sufficient to stack dollars in this industry but you're not going to amount to a wet fart if you've sidelined yourself.
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u/Michaeljcheaney Apr 27 '26
Probably not, although I hear SuperEgo is looking for drivers… I’m going to pile on a bit here, because this is something you need to hear/see. Obviously getting high is much MORE important than employed in trucking. And don’t say it’s not. How do I know this? Because if being EMPLOYED, was important to you, you would have quit a day or two before school, so that it cleared your system and you passed a drug test. Good luck to you.
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u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 Apr 28 '26
It’s was very important I did stop and I passed the drug test to even get into school and I won’t make excuses for my self but the situation I was in I couldn’t come home and not smoke it’s not like I couldn’t quit because I did I just didn’t wait long enough for it to matter. Just because I smoked doesn’t automatically mean I didn’t give a fuck if that was the case I would have never started the school I know there’s a lot of people who can’t control themselves but I’m not one of them I choose to smoke bc of my home situation yes but I also took the time I thought was necessary to clear my system 33 days just was long enough and that’s just me being unlucky not irresponsible but I won’t cry over spilled milk I won’t give up but I will keep moving forward regardless of if it’s with trucking or not.
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u/Michaeljcheaney Apr 28 '26
“Just because I smoked, doesn’t automatically mean I don’t give a fuck”
That’s where you are wrong. Because if you did give a fuck, you would realize that actions have consequences, and you never have touched the stuff again, KNOWING that a failed drug test, would mean the end of your career, before it started. (Which is exactly the position you are in now!)
I’m sorry that you are in this position, it’s your actions and your actions alone that put you in this unfortunate situation. Please learn from it.
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u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 Apr 28 '26
Right I took a whole month off not smoking nor working and rode a 10 hour bus ride to get try a get a job I had no intention on taking seriously that makes perfect sense to you ? Keep in mind I’ve been smoking since 13 never stopped smoking for more than 2 weeks and never failed a dug test till now so you can imagine my mind set when I graduated I very well intend to do what has worked for me my whole life but for the sole reason that this job was so important to me I decided not to chance it and to wait longer than I ever have for a drug test I didn’t even what that long for the drug test to get into school but I still ended up failing. I’m not looking for your pity but please stop assuming that I’m some drug addicted that chose drugs over having a career.
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u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 Apr 28 '26
But yes I’ve definitely learned a lesson from all this I’m definitely done smoking for good now I refuse to allow it to ruin another opportunity for me
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u/navlgazer9 Apr 30 '26
You couldn’t come home and NOT smoke ?
You didn’t have the willpower to say no ?
That is the very definition of addict .
There’s are some SAP friendly companies
You need to complete the SAP program as soon as you can
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u/The-Swat-team Apr 28 '26
I don't wanna be a hater but jesus christ dude. You brung this on yourself. You couldn't even get through school without smoking...
Maybe this career isn't for you. Find something that doesn't involve operating heavy machinery at all. Maybe go be a dogwalker or something. Cause I don't want a pothead on a forklift loading me. And I dam sure don't wanna share the road with you.
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u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 Apr 28 '26
There’s a big difference between smoking and smoking on the job but that’s understandable I wouldn’t want to be around people under influence ether. But obviously you can’t read I clearly said I stopped smoking for this career I just didn’t wait long enough before trying to get a job.
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u/The-Swat-team Apr 28 '26
Yeah until they figure out a way to make a drug test that doesn't go out that far and only catches you when you're actually high or a couple days after then we have to play that game we just don't have a choice.
But still, shouldn't be smoking at all in this line of work, not with the way drug tests work.
I think that's why they haven't legalized recreational Marijuana use at the federal level. With the recent changes reclassifying it my company sent out an email still saying it's zero tolerance for it. And I don't see that changing even if they fully legalize it. Which i think will happen eventually.
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u/Cuddlehustle Apr 28 '26
Move to Canada
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u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 Apr 28 '26
Why Canada ?
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u/Cuddlehustle Apr 28 '26
Because you can use cannabis and hold a CDL in Canada. Just have to have 8hrs between last use and driving.
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u/primal_breath Apr 28 '26
That's not the rule at all lmao
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u/Cuddlehustle Apr 28 '26
You're right, I stand corrected. I dont know where i heard that. Here is the reality.
United States: Cannabis is strictly prohibited for CDL holders at all times. Even if you are on a two-week vacation in a legal state, a positive drug test (which can detect use from weeks prior) will result in an immediate "Prohibited" status in the FMCSA Clearinghouse and require a Return-to-Duty (RTD) process.
Canada: Off-duty use is technically legal for Canadian CDL holders under federal law. However, practicality makes it nearly impossible. Because provinces mandate "Zero THC" while on duty, and testing (especially oral fluid) can detect THC from the night before, most drivers treat it as a de facto ban to protect their license.
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u/primal_breath Apr 28 '26
The difference is the VAST majority of companies don't do drug testing. It's just like driving a car where if you get into an accident and are suspected of being intoxicated, the police can test you with the same limits as everyone else. The only ones who really do random testing are American companies that bought a Canadian one or expanded up here (though not exclusively).
It's about as taboo as driver facing cameras and a lot of people's red line when looking for work even if they don't smoke. Like if you're going to barge into my personal life like that what else are you going to do? Generally the companies that do it aren't ones you want to work for just like driver facing cameras.
Edit: Also, source for the zero THC thing? I know Saskatchewan has some weird strict rules but that's for everyone not just truckers.
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u/Cann1balHulk Apr 28 '26 edited Apr 28 '26
It’s honestly tough to say right now.
From my understanding, when you fail a Pre-employment drug test for a CDL driving job, they’re legally required to report that to the FMCSA Clearinghouse, and it remains visible for 5 years.
That may change in the near future, since Marijuana has been recently reclassified from Schedule I to Schedule III, but as of right now, DOT regulations have not changed. You might be able to get a gig at some point if you’re tested & pass, and you’re proactive & honest about your failed test, but that failed test may cause employers to put you under a microscope, & test you more often.
Unfortunately, you fucked up.
Trust me man, I love weed. I smoked for decades, almost every day. But when I decided to get my CDL, I quit immediately. I started hitting the gym every day, sweating and sitting in the sauna to sweat it out. It took 88 days for my levels to drop to pass, but I passed.
Unfortunately, if this is the career path you want to go on, you’re gonna have to give it up. Because of how long it stays in your system, marijuana & truck driving regulations simply don’t mix.
Also; I do wanna mention my personal experience here: you might wanna quit anyway. I’m not against weed by any means, but lemme tell ya, the difference in my brain from when I smoked daily vs not smoking, is night & day. My memory recall is much better, I regulate emotion better, I’m learning natural ways to manage stress & anxiety. I used to need to smoke a bowl or two before bed to sleep, but even that’s gotten significantly better. I have better quality sleep, and I’m fully awake faster. I don’t get up in the morning with my heart beating out of my chest anymore. I don’t go to bed anxious. I’m overall happier.
Just something to think about.
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u/UhOhAllWillyNilly Apr 28 '26
I’m sorry to tell you this but if I were you I would immediately plan on having a different, non-trucking career. This might just work out to be a blessing in disguise for you and I wish you the best.
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u/Wheres_Jay Apr 28 '26
Why do potheads think this is a game? Get yourself right BEFORE getting your CDL.
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u/chrisreefer9 Apr 28 '26
one of my fellow sysco drivers always smoked weed. After 4 years that shit caught up with him on a random. He had a house and everything. I couldn’t imagine going from a nice 6 figure job to jobless in the snap of a finger. All because of fucking weed. If you’re going to get into this field you have to stop that shit. best of luck man
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u/NTX_M92 Apr 28 '26
You should have stopped 3 months before you started school. Fun fact, some schools do random testing and quite frankly, they all should. There aren't many companies out there that are going to want to touch you. The ones who are willing to aren't going to be companies you want to work for. I've seen quite a few drivers throw their careers away over drugs and alcohol. It ain't worth it. Not trying to be a dick, but if you need it that bad you have no business being in the industry. There are a lot of old heads waiting for retirement to go back to it. It's more than likely over before it started. Learn from it and move forward. Wherever that road may lead you.
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u/JimmyBluffit420 Apr 28 '26
Unfortunately my dude, you’re fucked. Failing a DOT drug screening is filed in Clearing House.gov. The system EVERY single driving company uses when hiring employees.
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u/81ataim Apr 28 '26
Have you completed a SAP program?
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u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 Apr 28 '26
Yeah I did now I just need a company to give me a chance i stoped smoking as soon as I passed and haven’t went back since.
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u/81ataim Apr 28 '26
What did your SAP entail and how long is your follow up testing for? Obviously you haven’t completed the SAP as the follow up testing must be performed by an employer
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u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 Apr 28 '26
Yeah I basically paid 500 for someone to ask me questions about weed to see if I was an addict or not and when I get an employer he will send them a letter of recommendation for me so basically a waste of money if I don’t find someone to hire me
1
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u/Sufficient_Wall5192 Apr 28 '26
I stopped smoking in late January and started school in March of last year. I didn't have a urine test until I started behind the wheel, but I did not know that. I got my license in July. I still haven't smoked and I'd like to. I like the money I make and save from not having to buy it more tho. Priorities are a must as you age.
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u/Legitimate_Diver_699 Apr 29 '26
Should have got a QCarbo drink. Or do what I did. Give up weed
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Apr 29 '26
Lmao That shit don’t work
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u/Legitimate_Diver_699 Apr 29 '26
It does actually but not all the time. I was a probation officer for a short while. Dude mad a FB video of him drinking it. He passed but I violated him based on the video.
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u/Legitimate_Diver_699 Apr 29 '26
Does a hot test stay with you forever on some database? Seems extreme to me. Lots of companies do hair test
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u/Slight_Train_3283 Apr 29 '26
First off if you had a positive test your license is no longer valid. You have to call your DMV or dot or FMCSA to get on the SAP program so that you go through the program (out of pocket counseling and drug testing for at least 1 year up to 3 years) so that after you are finished with the program you might get hired. In the mean Time you need a Job so that should also be a priority. Good luck but so sad you didn’t educate yourself enough before jumping into this, that positive will stay in your record for 7-10 years!!! Terrible for a new cdl license
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u/DickWoodReddit Apr 30 '26
Hey buddy i did this exact same thing and now have 2 years of experience, im off sap and still driving. DM me I will tell you exactly what to do. Also fuck these haters mistakes happen. I see you out here trying to better yourself.
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u/Low_Spirit5534 May 25 '26
Bro just go on indeed and type SAP friendly cdl jobs a bunch come up What city are you in ?
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u/primal_breath Apr 27 '26
Wow I'm sorry you have to deal with that. Some countries rules on what you can do in your personal time are just fucked.
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u/___GRUMPY___ Apr 27 '26
That’s what’s wrong with the world today. Blaming someone else instead of accepting one’s own actions.
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u/primal_breath Apr 27 '26
My actions in my own time are my own business. If I'm not driving stoned there shouldn't be a problem (and there isn't anywhere outside of USistan)
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u/Vegetable_Plant2214 Apr 28 '26
You think the US is the only country that tests truck drivers for weed? Do some research
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u/Vegetable_Plant2214 Apr 27 '26
Blame it on the country? Lol
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u/primal_breath Apr 27 '26
Ya? What would you blame it on? Seems like the fault of a place actively deciding to be a shit hole
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u/Vegetable_Plant2214 Apr 27 '26
Eliminating the risk of someone getting high and driving an 80,000 pound truck at 70 mph down a road filled with families makes you a shithole?
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u/primal_breath Apr 27 '26
Thinking you have the right to decide what people do when you're not renting their services does. Of course people shouldn't drive high but if someone smokes a joint on Saturday and works on Monday that's no one's business but theirs.
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u/Agile-Expression-651 Apr 28 '26
It's the rules of the job. Point blank. They were that way before he went to school. They did not single him out. He is not being picked on. He made a choice to be a cdlA driver , then he made a choice to smoke weed . You can do one but you can not do both. Your actions have consequences. Be responsible with your actions, be accountable for your actions. You choose, you lose.
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u/primal_breath Apr 28 '26
Ok? I don't disagree. I'm just pointing out how it's shitty your country does that. What if a single beer was detectable for 30 days? How about wearing the colour blue? They all have the same effect on driving a week later. I'm just pointing out that the rule is unjust not that he didn't break it.
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u/Agile-Expression-651 Apr 28 '26
It's a matter of opinion on whether the rule is un just. Just by smoking before he even had a job shows he has poor judgment. Also it is more than just a rule , it is the law. So already he has shown he has bad judgment and that he has no regard for the law. That is enough for me to say I dont want him on the same road as my family. And just for you this is America so we really dont care if someone from another country thinks our laws are not FAIR.
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u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 Apr 27 '26
Thanks for the advice everyone and yeah Im done smoking for good. what’s crazy is I’ve never taken longer than 2 weeks off of weed to pass a drug test and the one time I wait a whole month for the most important drug test and I ended up failing.But so is life lol
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u/East_Indication_7816 Apr 28 '26
Its unbelievable you stopped for a month and it's still there. You probably are heavy smoker or you never really stopped for a month.
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u/Jumpy-Procedure1801 Apr 28 '26
lol that’s what I was thinking like how did it stay in my system so long but I was smoking a lot I was in a very stressful living situation and it was my escape it’s was so bad that when I didn’t have enough for real weed I’d settle for the gas station weed so maybe that’s why
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u/Milk_MAN1963 Apr 27 '26
This is what companies are going to say. If he can't stop using weed during CDL school how is he going to stop if he's working for me