Pretty sure spec is not random. I used to be a druid on live and if Scirocco posted it, you could bank on it being the way it worked.
http://thedruidsgrove.org/archive/eq/t-3888.html
In case link doesn't work, here is copy of text.
There are no "specialization checks". You get a certain mana savings every time you cast, based on your spec skill level, and also on your SCM skill.
Basic Specialization Savings (for 50 and 200 spec):
50 = 3% savings EVERY TIME, no check performed
200 = 11% savings every time
SCM1, add 2% savings (5% or 13%)
SCM2, add 5% savings (8% or 16%)
SCM3, add 10% savings (13% or 21%)