What Happens If You Fail a U.S. Coast Guard Drug Test?
Here’s Our Clear Roadmap for Coast Guard SAP and Return to Duty
If you’re a Professional Mariner — a licensed Captain, crew member, or someone seeking your Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) — failing a U.S. Coast Guard drug test can feel like the end of your career. Your license, your ability to work on vessels, and your future in the maritime industry are suddenly at risk.
Here’s the good news: there’s a clear path forward. The Coast Guard SAP process follows the Department of Transportation’s Return to Duty program for mariners like you. At Return to Duty, we guide MMC holders and professional mariners through the SAP process with support from U.S. military veterans who understand your unique challenges.
Here’s a straightforward breakdown of what happens after a failed USCG drug test and how the SAP program can help you regain your credentials and confidence to get back to work on the water.
What Happens If You Fail a Drug Test as a Professional Mariner?
Failing or refusing a drug test is a tough moment. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or worried about how this affects your career and credentials.
The U.S. Coast Guard follows strict rules under the Department of Transportation’s Return to Duty program. A positive or refused test can lead to suspension or revocation of your Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), grounding you from working on vessels.
These rules protect you, your crew, and the public by ensuring safety at sea. Knowing what to expect can help you navigate this challenge with confidence.
For U.S. Coast Guard Active Duty and Reservists
If you’re on active duty or reserve in the U.S. Coast Guard, your drug testing and return-to-duty processes differ from those of the DOT program that applies to civilian mariners.
The Coast Guard follows Department of Homeland Security policies, including internal procedures for removal from duty, administrative separation, and treatment options.
For help with the Coast Guard’s Substance Abuse Program (SAP), contact your command or Coast Guard SAP coordinator.
What Is the USCG DOT SAP Process for Merchant Mariners?
Failing a merchant marine drug test doesn’t have to end your career. If it’s your first offense, the DOT SAP process provides a clear path to recover, rebuild trust, and make a successful return to your vessel.
The U.S. Coast Guard oversees your compliance with the Department of Transportation’s SAP program. You must follow and complete the DOT SAP process to return to duty. Failing to comply or trying to return to work without completing the program can lead to serious consequences with the Coast Guard.
While the process is strict, it’s also your opportunity to take control, show commitment, and prove you’re ready to get back on the water stronger than before.
The Return to Duty Process —Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve tested positive on a merchant mariner drug test but have the chance to go through the DOT Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) program, you’re not just fulfilling requirements — you’re rebuilding trust and showing that one mistake won’t define your career.
Here’s how the process works:
Step One: Meet with a DOT-Qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)
You’ll work with a licensed SAP who understands the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and the U.S. Coast Guard’s oversight. The SAP will assess your situation and develop a personalized recovery plan.
Why this matters: You get expert guidance and a clear roadmap to recovery.
Step Two: Complete the Recommended Treatment or Education Program
Your SAP may recommend treatment, counseling, education, or a combination based on your assessment.
Your benefit: This is a real opportunity to reset, reflect, and build tools for long-term success.
Step Three: Schedule Your Follow-Up Evaluation
After completing your program, you’ll meet with your SAP again. They’ll verify your progress and readiness to move forward.
This step shows: Your commitment to the process and accountability.
Step Four: Successfully Pass a Return-to-Duty Drug Test
You must pass a directly observed drug test before returning to safety-sensitive duties.
Passing proves: You’re ready and committed to returning to work responsibly.
Step Five: Adhere to Follow-Up Testing Requirements
Your SAP will set up an unannounced follow-up drug testing schedule for 12 to 60 months.
It’s about accountability: Every passed test strengthens your record of reliability.
Completing the SAP process and returning to duty means showing growth, responsibility, and leadership. Every step you take demonstrates your commitment to your career, your vessel, and maritime safety.
Ready to take control of your return?
Why Choose Return to Duty for Your USCG SAP Evaluation?
Veteran-Led. DOT-Qualified. 100% Online.
If you're a professional mariner who’s lost your Merchant Mariner Credential due to a failed drug test—even one tied to Coast Guard mariner drug testing requirements—it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. But this doesn’t have to end your career at sea.
Our veteran-led, DOT-qualified team, based in Lebanon County, PA, is here to guide you through the Return to Duty process and help you get back on the water, cleared, confident, and credentialed.
How the Return to Duty SAP Evaluation Works: What to Expect
Our Return to Duty SAP evaluation is built to support mariners and credentialed professionals through every step. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Fully Online and Flexible
Complete your evaluation from anywhere—no travel or time off needed.
2. Veteran-Led Support
Our team of U.S. military veterans and DOT-qualified professionals understands the unique challenges mariners face.
3. Thorough, Personalized Assessment
We’ll evaluate your situation and build a tailored recovery plan based on DOT and Coast Guard mariner drug testing standards.
4. Clear, Actionable Next Steps
You’ll get straightforward guidance for treatment, education, and what’s needed to regain your Merchant Mariner Credential.
5. Renewed Confidence at Sea
This process isn’t just about compliance—it’s about restoring your career, your reputation, and your readiness for duty.
Reclaim Your Career. Book Your Coast Guard SAP Evaluation Today
Connect with a U.S. Military Veteran and SAP Evaluator Who Can Help You Move Forward.
If you’ve failed a Coast Guard drug test or a Merchant Mariner Credential drug test, it can feel like everything’s at risk. But that first step—connecting with a DOT-qualified SAP—can be the beginning of a true comeback.
At Return to Duty, we’re here to guide mariners through the process with clarity, compassion, and real-world experience.
