If you violated a DOT testing policy and need to complete the Substance Abuse Professional process to get your CDL or safety sensitive position back, Dr. Kristy Burton is a qualified SAP and can complete your evaluation within 1 to 2 business days. The Return to Duty process has three steps. First, an initial in person evaluation in Springdale or virtual evaluation that produces your treatment recommendations. Second, you complete the recommended education or treatment. Third, a follow up evaluation determines your eligibility to return to safety sensitive duty. You receive documentation to provide to your current or prospective employer confirming successful completion.
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If you hold a DOT-regulated safety-sensitive position (commercial driver, pilot, rail worker, maritime, transit, pipeline) and you had an alcohol or drug violation, federal regulations require you to complete a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluation before you can return to duty. Dr. Kristy Burton is a qualified SAP and conducts these evaluations in person from our Fayetteville office or virtually for clients anywhere.
How does the DOT SAP process work?
Initial evaluation. Scheduled either in-person in Fayetteville or virtually, typically completed within two business days of request. Dr. Burton conducts a comprehensive face-to-face clinical evaluation and provides written recommendations.
Education and treatment. Based on the initial evaluation, you receive recommendations for education, treatment, and aftercare. You must comply with and complete these recommendations before the follow-up.
Follow-up evaluation. After completing recommended services, you return for a follow-up evaluation (in-person or virtual). Dr. Burton determines your eligibility to return to safety-sensitive duty.
Documentation. You receive formal SAP documentation to provide to your current or prospective employer, meeting all federal requirements for return to duty.
What does a SAP evaluation cover?
Comprehensive face-to-face clinical assessment of substance use history
DSM-5 substance use disorder evaluation
Review of the circumstances surrounding the DOT violation
Written recommendations for education, treatment, and aftercare
Coordination with your employer and third-party administrator as required
All documentation meeting 49 CFR Part 40 requirements
Why choose Dr. Burton for your SAP evaluation?
Dr. Burton holds the MAC (Master Addiction Counselor), AADC (Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor), and SAP credentials. She is a board member for the Arkansas Substance Abuse Certification Board and President of the Arkansas Addiction Professionals Association. She has conducted SAP evaluations for commercial drivers, pilots, rail workers, and other safety-sensitive professionals across Arkansas and beyond.
If you are an employer, DER, TPA, or MRO needing to refer an employee for SAP evaluation, contact us directly. We handle the full return-to-duty process and provide all documentation required by federal regulations.
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Published: 2025-09-15 ·
Last updated: 2026-04-29 ·
Last clinically reviewed: 2026-04-29 by Dr. Kristy Burton, PhD, LPC-S, LADAC, AADC, MAC, CS, SAP, NCC
Related Questions
How quickly can I get my SAP evaluation?
Initial evaluations are typically completed within 1 to 2 business days of scheduling. Same week availability is common when you call early in the day. Call 501 464 2926 to schedule.
Will my employer accept the documentation?
Yes. Dr. Burton is a qualified DOT SAP and her documentation meets federal requirements at 49 CFR Part 40. Documentation is provided directly to your designated employer representative or DER.
Can the evaluation be done virtually?
Yes. Both initial and follow up SAP evaluations can be completed via HIPAA compliant video conferencing if you cannot reach our Springdale office. Virtual evaluations meet the same federal standards as in person.
What does the evaluation cost?
Costs vary based on whether your case requires the full Return to Duty process or a one time evaluation. Many employers reimburse SAP costs as part of return to work agreements. Call 501 464 2926 for current pricing.
What happens if I disagree with the SAP recommendations?
DOT regulations at 49 CFR Part 40 give limited appeal options. Recommendations are based on clinical assessment and federal requirements, not employer preference. Your SAP can answer specific questions about how recommendations were determined.
Does insurance cover SAP evaluations?
SAP evaluations are typically not covered by health insurance because they are mandated under federal employment regulation, not clinically indicated treatment. Many employers reimburse the cost as part of return to duty agreements.
If you or someone you know is in crisis
988 — Suicide and Crisis Lifeline · call or text · 24/7 free
Text HOME to 741741 — Crisis Text Line · 24/7 free
988 then press 1 — Veterans Crisis Line
877-565-8860 — Trans Lifeline
1-800-662-4357 — SAMHSA National Helpline · substance use · 24/7 free
Sources retrieved April 2026. External resources reviewed for relevance to the topics on this page; Arkansas Counseling and Wellness Services is independent of the listed organizations except where directly noted.
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