Quick Question..??

So I have been looking into trucking for a while now and I think I'm about ready to go get my CDL. I've been studying and taking the practice tests online in my state for the permit. The only thing that is holding me up is that I was Discharged from the army with a General Under Honorable Conditions Discharge for Misconduct (Drug abuse) for a failed UA. I have had multiple jobs since I got out which have all required background checks and it has never came up on any of them. All anyone ever asks is what type of discharge it was and I tell them. NO MOVING VIOLATIONS EVER and Only 1 minor fender bender when I first got my license in my teens.

How would this affect me? Thanks in advance for any helpful comments/answers.

Blake

Welcome. How long ago was the HOT UA in the military?

Safe Travels.

I was just discharged for it in March, but the actual UA was sometime late last year. I want to say anywhere from beginning to end of November.

Blake

I would look at the vast resources here on Trucking Truth, as many have the time requirements from drug offenses and DUI's to speeding. I don't think the answer is to hope they don't notice, because I would bet since you test positive in the military, that positive result can be viewed by hiring agencies. But I am sure others will jump in if I am wrong.

Best of Luck

What exactly does your DD214 has for discharge? You are required to furnish a copy upon request to any future employer.

I, too, have no idea what hiring agencies can see. And while I would never encourage someone to lie about their past, if you have your self together at this point in life, I would suggest NOT disclosing that information voluntarily and unless directly asked about it.

Again, don't ever lie about it. But when (or if) it's an important issue they will ask directly about it.

In the meantime, there are plenty of companies that have listed their information, requirements, and policies on such things right here on Trucking Truth.

Check out some of these links to get an idea of what and how specific companies require of you in reference to situations such as yours.

• Trucking Company Reviews
• DOT Drug and Alcohol Policies & Testing
• CDL Drug & Alcohol Testing Methods & Detection Times
• CDL Drug Test Failure & Return-to-Duty Process
• Substance Abuse Professionals
• Hair Follicle vs. Urinalysis Drug Testing: Breakdown By Company
• Forum Topics Tagged "Drug And Alcohol Testing"
• Truck Driving School Listings
• Truck Driving Jobs
• Paid CDL Training Programs

These links should help you get an idea of the policies, etc., that are currently out there and the approach you may want to take to pursue trucking as a career.