Can Truck Drivers Use CBD Oil?

Short answer: yes!

However, a few rules apply. What rules?

I’ve listed them all in this piece.

But before I talk about the rules, let’s discuss why there is ever an issue with CBD use for truck drivers in the first place.

What Is the Issue About CBD Oil Use for Truck Drivers?

CBD oil is widely available for recreational and medicinal uses in Canada and the United States. And it is also legalized. It has been so in Canada, particularly since 2018.

So, why is the case different for truck and semi drivers?For an occupation that features episodes of muscle spasms, joint pain, insomnia and chronic pain — which are the symptoms CBD oil manages, why can’t truck drivers use “active releaf balm,” for example, to relieve anxiety?

Three factors are responsible:

1. Side effects of THC
2. Drug testing issues
3. Company Policies

Side Effects of THC

Quick fact: while CBD is mainly extracted from hemp and marijuana plants, trace amounts of THC, tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive component (the highness) in marijuana.

THC has been known to result in altered senses, mood swings, impaired memory, and drowsiness. Also, it can affect thinking and problem-solving. Unfortunately, those symptoms don’t look good for drivers.

However,  the argument gets interesting. How?

CBD oil contains zero to low levels of THC — less than 3%. In other words, it is safe to use.

However, ensure you ONLY buy a CBD product that has tested and proven beyond doubt to contain less than 3%, like the ones in our CBD shop. Otherwise, you might test positive and fail the Controlled Substances Act.

Drug Testing Issues

For drivers within Canada, you should not worry about drug tests. How so?

Fortunately, there is no federal law that mandates drug testing on drivers.

However, if your work requires you to frequently cross the border to the United States, for example, that is a different case. You must take DOT drug tests because the federal regulations (and some state laws) mandate that.

Related article: Do Mushrooms Show Up on a Drug Test

Should you fret about testing positive for marijuana/hemp plants?

No!

Don’t fear drug tests if you use CBD oils as a truck driver. The solution remains buying tested, drug-test-confirmed, THC-free CBD products. They contain less than 3% THC and are safe to use.

Company Policies

While drug screening is not mandatory, your trucking company might be permitted to do it for cases like:

• Rehabilitation — for suspended truck drivers because of their history of drug abuse (specifically marijuana products). A test might be necessary for reintegration.
• Suspicion of impairment — for suspicious cases of being high during an accident or impairment while driving a truck.
• Safety reasons

In any of the cases, motor carriers are mandated to inform you of drug testing in Canada. The situation is different in the United States.

Now, let’s talk about the rules of using CBD oil.

Verdict: Is CBD Oil Safe for Truck Drivers?

Yes!

To ensure 100% safety when using a full-spectrum CBD product, follow these rules:

1. Buy your CBD oil only from a trusted supplier
2. Your CBD oil must contain less than 3% THC
3. For work that includes travelling to different locations, ensure you test to see that you comply with the 3% benchmark.
4. Use CBD oil only for its medicinal purposes as a truck driver — not to get high or for recreation.
5. For exceptional cases of medical cannabis prescription, ensure to present a legitimate medical explanation to your carriers.