First-Quarter Reminders: Staying Aligned, Accurate, and Audit-Ready
As we move into March and approach the close of the first quarter, it’s a good time for carriers to double check that their annual requirements and testing programs are fully aligned for 2026. This is often one of the busiest times of year for compliance housekeeping, and taking a moment now to confirm that key items are in place can prevent unnecessary stress—and unnecessary violations—down the road.
One of the most important reminders this month is MIS reporting for Drug and Alcohol testing. If your company was selected by FMCSA, your report must be submitted accurately and on time. We have seen avoidable issues arise simply because data wasn’t reviewed carefully before submission. A quick verification step can make all the difference, and our team is here to help ensure your numbers are complete and correct.
This is also the right moment to confirm that your testing pools and percentages are properly set for the new year. Every year, we assist carriers who realize mid-year that their pools weren’t adjusted or their random selections weren’t running at the correct annualized rate. These are small oversights that can create significant exposure. Reviewing them now keeps you confident and prepared if enforcement activity or an audit comes your way.
In Driver Services, we understand how busy the start of a year can be—balancing onboarding, renewals, testing schedules, and day-to-day operational demands. Our goal is to help ensure these foundational elements are aligned so your compliance program stays organized and predictable throughout the rest of the year. Your CSR is already keeping an eye on these details, and reviewing your first-quarter progress with them is a great way to ensure you’re on solid footing moving forward.
Wishing you a productive and steady start to spring—and a strong finish to the first quarter!
Lorena Terrazas
Driver Services Department Supervisor