New To Driving, Question About A 30 Years Ago Positive UA.

I'm new to the industry and I'm applying for jobs with major carriers. I've told two of them, honestly, when I was asked that I did test positive for smoking pot 30 years ago. They seemed like it was going to be an issue. I was working for an Agricultural company that just laid off all new hires and I was one them. They gave me a glowing letter of recommendation and I have my HazMat and Tanker endorsements that I needed to haul their chemicals. Am I screwed to get on with someone? I probably could have said never but I prefer to be honest.

I think the question usually asked on applications is "Have you ever tested positive or refused a drug test in the last 10 years." I could be wrong but 10 years' history should be enough. If I am wrong, someone will pipe in and correct me but answering that question to the tune of 30 years ago, seems a little rough, (unless someone is convicted of dealing or trafficking drugs or something like that.) But I don't see why you would have to disclose results that are that old.

-mountain girl

Hello and welcome David.

Thirty years ago is a non issue. Tell the truth but only answer the question, in other words, don`t elaborate. This, of course, is as long as you were not operating a commercial vehicle (you say you have endorsements so you have a cdl?) and not in the military. Other than those, there will be no record. Even then, I really do not think companies go that far back.

I'm with RT. If you're asked if you tested positive or refused any drug testing in the last 10 years and you said, "No," you'd be telling the truth, so all else is a non-issue.

-mountain girl

Thanks for the info. They asked if I've ever tested positive and not if tested positive in the last 10 years. So with being asked if ever, I gave an honest answer. I'll answer differently now that I know more of a guideline. It was a non issue for my TSA HazMat background check which I wasn't concerned about as I've been a CCW holder for quite some time. I could be wrong but I feel like that BGC was probably pretty dog gone thorough. It was a hard lesson that was learned way back then. While it sucked and cost me a great job/career, it made me a better person going forward and helped me get my act together before becoming a Dad. :-)

It was a hard lesson that was learned way back then. While it sucked and cost me a great job/career, it made me a better person going forward ...

David W.

I hear ya. I'm a recovering lead-foot.

-mountain girl