CDL SAP Program after the November downgrade

Posted by HelmetJack@reddit | Truckers | View on Reddit | 2 comments

I failed a DOT drug test a little over a year ago, and had my license suspended ever since. I spent the last year trying to keep my head above water and work what I can where I can and am only now at a job where I feel secure enough to look into SAPs. However, just a few weeks ago I got my downgraded id card. It wasnt a surprise, DOT sent me letters in the mail about it ahead of time, I was just not in a good place (in between jobs, personal life issues) to give it attention. I was hoping, and still am, that regardless if my license is downgraded or not, I could get into an SAP when I'm ready and have my CDL reinstated. Am I right in this assumption? How exactly can I, if at all, get my CDL back? And is there anyone who went through the SAP who can give me insight on what I can expect? TO ADD CONTEXT: I failed a pre-employment drug screening, popped hot for thc. I've been weed free since early Sept '24. I feel that if I get my CDL reinstated I could find work, either with a SAP friendly company or working for an owner/operator (would owner/ops be penalized by DOT or insurance companies for having a SAP grad on payroll?).