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The Global Insight

How long does it take to pass a pre-employment drug test?

Author

James Williams

Updated on March 21, 2026

It usually only takes a few days to receive results from a workplace drug test. An employer may even request a rapid test, which can provide results the same day. Employers receive negative test results within 24 hours. Non-negative results take more time because of the additional testing required.

What happens if you test positive for a pre-employment drug test?

If the test results in a positive reading, meaning there is drug residue in the body, the results are forwarded to a medical review officer, who reviews the results and looks for any possible valid medical explanation for the results. “As a medical review officer, I would review a patient’s medical history.

How do I know if I will pass a urine drug test?

There is no way to completely predict just how long a drug will take to be eliminated from your body. The only way to know you’ll pass a drug test is to abstain from drugs. To estimate of the effects of drug addiction on a person’s long-term physical health, check out our addiction calculator.

What is the most common pre-employment drug screen?

The most common drug test, a standard 5-panel urine drug test, examines a urine specimen for the presence of:

  • THC (Marijuana)
  • Cocaine.
  • Opiates.
  • Phencylcidine (PCP)
  • Amphetamines.

    What happens if I fail a pre employment drug test?

    Generally speaking, if you fail a pre-employment drug test, the company may legally refuse to hire you. And, if you fail a drug test while employed, your employer may legally terminate your employment or prevent you from being promoted.

    Can you retake a pre employment drug test?

    No. If you fail a drug test you are not able to retake and will not be considered for employment with the company.

    What happens if I fail a pre-employment drug test?

    Can you retake a pre-employment drug test?

    How much water will dilute a urine sample?

    Dilution. If a tester drinks large amounts of water (at least one gallon) before taking a drug test, urine becomes diluted and metabolites from drugs may become undetectable.

    Do you have to do pre employment drug testing?

    Pre employment drug testing is becoming a more and more common hiring requirement. It is estimated that 98 percent of Fortune 200 companies have implemented some form of employee drug testing during their recruitment process. It is important to be prepared for these drug tests by knowing what to expect.

    Do you have to pass drug test at work?

    It all comes down to employment at will. In every U.S. state except Montana, employees are presumed to be “at will” unless they’re covered by an employment contract that states otherwise.

    What kind of drug test do you have to pass?

    The types of drug and alcohol tests which show the presence of drugs or alcohol include urine drug tests, blood drug tests, hair drug tests, breath alcohol tests, saliva drug screen and sweat drug screen. Passing a Drug Test The only way to be sure that you’re going to pass a drug test is not to have drugs or alcohol in your system.

    What are the rights of an applicant for drug testing?

    The applicant’s basic rights extend primarily to the right to privacy as stated above and the right to question the legitimacy of the test result including the right to pay for further testing at a lab of their choice. You may have additional rights depending on your individual circumstances as well as State regulations. 4.