What is Designated Employer Representative (DER) Training
Designated Employer Representative (DER) training is essential for employers regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). The DER is responsible for managing all aspects of a company’s drug and alcohol testing program and ensuring compliance with federal regulations under 49 CFR Part 40.
This comprehensive DER training course from AlcoPro equips employers, supervisors, and safety professionals with the knowledge needed to oversee testing procedures, handle sensitive situations, and maintain full DOT compliance.
Why DER Training is Critical for DOT Compliance
Every DOT-regulated employer must designate a DER to oversee their testing program. This role is critical because the DER is the primary decision-maker responsible for responding to testing results, violations, and compliance issues.
Without proper DER training, companies risk non-compliance, failed audits, and costly penalties. This course ensures you understand your responsibilities and take the correct actions when it matters most.
What You’ll Learn in the DER Training Course
DOT Regulations & Compliance Requirements
- Understand 49 CFR Part 40 and modal regulations
- Learn employer and DER responsibilities
- Recognize prohibited conduct and DOT violations
Drug and Alcohol Testing Procedures
- Testing methods, timelines, and processes
- How to handle refusals to test, problem tests, and test results
- Proper documentation and confidentiality requirements
Managing Your DOT Testing Program
- Work with service agents involved in the DOT testing process and how they interact with the DER (MROs, SAPs, collectors, etc.)
- Respond to real-world testing scenarios
- Maintain a compliant and efficient testing program
- Manage Reasonable Suspicion training and testing requirements
Real-World Scenarios & Practical Application
- Interactive training modules
- Guidance for handling sensitive employee situations
- Actionable steps for compliance success
This course is designed for both new and experienced DERs looking to strengthen their knowledge and confidence in managing DOT drug and alcohol testing programs.
Upon successful course completion student’s receive a certificate of completion.
Free DOT Glossary of Terms Guide
Download the DOT Glossary of Terms Guide to quickly understand essential Department of Transportation (DOT) drug and alcohol testing terms, agencies, regulations, and industry abbreviations. This resource is designed for DERs (Designated Employer Representatives), employers, owner-operators, and safety professionals who need clear explanations of common DOT compliance terminology used in workplace drug and alcohol testing programs.
Key Benefits of Online DER Training
- Stay compliant with DOT drug and alcohol testing regulations
- Reduce risk of violations, fines, and failed audits
- Gain confidence in handling testing situations
- Learn from industry experts with real-world experience
- Earn a certificate of completion and continuing education credits
Who Should Take DER Training?
- Employers with DOT-regulated employees
- Safety managers and HR professionals
- Compliance officers
- Owner-operators and small business owners
If your company operates under FMCSA, PHMSA, FAA, FRA, or other DOT agencies, DER training is essential to maintaining compliance.
Why Choose AlcoPro DER Training?
AlcoPro brings over 40 years of experience in drug and alcohol testing solutions and training. Their DER course is developed by industry experts and includes interactive tools, real-world scenarios, and up-to-date regulatory guidance to ensure compliance and confidence.
Training Course Technical Requirements
To take this online course, students will need the following
- A computer, tablet or smart phone with an internet connection and speakers
- This course is best viewed using Google Chrome browser (do not use IE browser to view this course)




Question
Sela –
Is there a time limit in which we have to complete the online training? Need to know if I’m able to pause training while multitasking.
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Jennie Lee-Pace –
The DOT does not require you complete training in a designated timeframe. We give you access to your course for 120 days. If you need an extension, we can accommodate. This course is a learn at your pace training. This allows you to log in and pick up where you left off.
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Question
Tom –
How long is this training video
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Jennie Lee-Pace –
This training program runs 1 hour and 15 minutes in length.
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