Background checks are usually used to verify someone’s identity, criminal records, and other public records throughout the hiring process. These checks can be used by the government, military, and private companies. So, does a background check include a drug test? The short answer is yes but there’s more to it than that.

While drug tests can be part of the background check process, this is not always the case. Private companies often set their own policies for drug tests but the military and federal government might be more stringent on regulations. Read on to learn more about drug tests and what types of background checks might require them.

What Is a Background Check?

A background check is a public records search that combs through someone’s public records to verify their identity. More in-depth background checks will find criminal records, court records, and other records about an individual. Background checks can be run by individuals, corporations, small businesses, and the state, local, or federal government. 

Most pre-employment background checks will include criminal records and sexual registry searches at the minimum. 

However, drug tests and more specific background checks, like a financial background check, can also be used for jobs with additional responsibilities. The Department of Transportation (DOT) also has unique background checks and drug screening processes.

Does a Background Check Include a Drug Test?

Not every job will test you for drugs. Therefore, not all background checks include a drug test. That said, many jobs do require a drug test, so that’s something you have to consider before you apply. For example, a military background check will usually include a drug screening and continuous drug screenings. 

On the other hand, a background check for a different job might not require a drug test. Ultimately, a drug test is usually one part of a background check and not the whole thing.

Pre-employment drug tests work by having the applicant urinate in a cup or have their blood drawn. Depending on the type of drug test, an applicant’s hair can also be tested. The most common type of drug test is a urine drug test, so most private companies and government agencies will use that method of testing.

What Are You Tested for in a Drug Test?

Ultimately, the type of drug that’s tested for on a drug test depends on the company and state laws. For example, states like New York have legalized marijuana, so many private companies have stopped testing for it. However, states like South Carolina may still test for marijuana. That said, the common drugs that are tested for on a drug test include:

  • Amphetamines
  • Cocaine
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Methadone 
  • Opioids 
  • Alcohol
  • MDMA
  • Phencyclidine (PCP)
  • Antidepressants
  • Methamphetamine

Always disclose any prescription drugs you take before the drug test to clear up any issues.

What Jobs Require a Drug Test?

Several jobs require a drug test and it helps to know which jobs require this testing before applying. Jobs that require a drug test are usually government jobs due to the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988. 

This act usually requires government agencies to screen their employees for drug use throughout the hiring process and even during their time working for the government. For this reason, civil service jobs (state, federal, or local) have to drug test applicants before hiring them. 

Some examples of civil service jobs include social services staff members, law enforcement officers, firefighters, road maintenance and construction, and employees who work in public education. Joining the military also requires a drug test and this applies to state and federal military organizations.

It’s also important to note that all Department of Transportation employees have to be drug tested. 

What’s more, the drug testing for DOT jobs can be more intensive than other civil service jobs. For example, someone who drives a commercial vehicle has to pass a drug test and some prescription drug can disqualify them from passing – even with a doctor’s letter.

Prepare for a Background Check Today! 

It’s important to prepare for a background check before you go through one. Being prepared can help you talk about your records before employers are notified and it can help you look more honest. For this reason, we always recommend checking your public records with UnMask’s people search. 

You can enter your name, state, and address into the search bar to get started. Then, you can view your full report and that will include everything about you that’s publicly available. While it won’t help you pass a drug test, it can ensure that everything else is in order once you do pass because a drug test is only a small part of the process.