The Department of Transportation issued a notice in response to questions concerning use of CBD (Cannabidiol). They aim to provide clarity on how consuming them can affect federal drug test results.
The Department of Transportation wants you to know that they are not testing for CBD, but rather for marijuana. A hemp-derived product is not classified as marijuana if its THC concentration is less than 0.3%. Therefore, before consuming a CBD product, it’s important to know the product’s THC concentration level.
Taking Precautions
However, exercise caution before consuming any CBD product. The amount of THC in CBD products is not currently certified by the Food and Drug Administration. In some cases, it may even be incorrect. For example, a product’s label could state that it only contains a THC concentration of 0.25%, but actually be higher. Therefore, anyone subjected to DOT drug testing and uses CBD products needs to be mindful and understand the risk.
To deter this from happening, the FDA has issued warnings to companies they have found misstating the CBD percentages. If a person shall test positive for THC on a federally regulated drug test, it will not be considered a valid medical explanation if it is claimed that only a CBD product was used.
Ultimately, individuals who are working in safety-sensitive positions and subject to DOT drug tests need to understand the risks they are taking by using CBD products. THC concentrations in CBD products can be higher than the label indicates. If you consume any product with a THC concentration higher than 0.3% before taking a DOT drug test, you will test positive. The safest thing to do for those who may have to take a federally regulated drug test is to avoid CBD products altogether.
Additional Information
To read the DOT’s notice in its entirety, click here .
