The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has proposed adding the synthetic opioid fentanyl and its metabolite, norfentanyl, to its federal drug-testing program. The move follows a January decision by the Department of Health and Human Services to expand its approved drug panels.
DOT cited fentanyl’s role in a growing number of overdose deaths, noting it is now frequently abused as a stand-alone drug rather than in combination with heroin. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl — up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine — is the leading cause of related overdoses.
If finalized, the rule would amend DOT regulations (49 CFR Part 40) to include fentanyl testing for truck drivers and other safety-sensitive transportation workers. Public comments are open until October 17.
Industry groups, including the American Trucking Associations, welcomed the proposal, saying it aligns testing protocols with today’s real-world risks and enhances highway safety.
Fentanyl has become the fourth-most frequently detected drug in forensic labs, accounting for nearly 12% of positive tests. Officials estimate testing expansion will cost about $18.1 million, but argue even preventing a single serious accident justifies the expense.
The trucking industry has also stepped up awareness efforts. The Trucking Cares Foundation partnered with Facing Fentanyl in 2024 to display public service messages on trailers, highlighting the devastating impact of fentanyl poisoning — which now claims over 70,000 American lives annually.
