Alcohol Testing Services - Accredited Drug Testing
Accredited Drug Testing provides fast, reliable, and confidential alcohol testing nationwide for DOT-regulated employees, employers, individuals, and legal purposes. Whether you need a breath alcohol test, EtG urine test, or post-accident screening, our certified collection network and federally approved testing methods ensure accurate and compliant results every time.
With thousands of locations across the United States, same-day appointments, and instant testing options available, Accredited Drug Testing makes it easy to stay compliant, protect your workplace, and promote a safe environment for all employees.
Top 15 Alcohol Testing FAQs
1. What is an alcohol test?
An alcohol test measures the presence of ethanol, the intoxicating ingredient in alcohol found in your system using your breath, saliva, urine, or blood. It helps determine if you have recently consumed alcohol and, in some cases, your level of impairment.
2. How is alcohol testing performed?
Alcohol testing can be conducted using a breathalyzer (for instant results), urine tests (to detect recent consumption), blood tests (for precise BAC measurement), oral fluid tests (non-invasive, quick results) or an alcohol hair testing used to detect a pattern of use.
3. What does BAC mean?
BAC stands for Blood Alcohol Concentration, representing the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream. Most states consider 0.08% BAC as the legal limit for operating a vehicle, While Department of Transportation and employers have a much lower level of an acceptable BAC level.
4. How long can alcohol be detected in the body?
Alcohol detection times vary. Breath tests detect alcohol up to 8 hours, urine tests up to 8-12 hours, and EtG/EtS tests may detect alcohol metabolites for up to 80 hours after drinking. While a hair alcohol test can provide a detection window of up to 90-days.
5. What is a DOT alcohol test?
A DOT alcohol test is a federally regulated breath test administered under 49 CFR Part 40 for transportation employees. It must be performed by a certified Breath Alcohol Technician (BAT) using an Evidential Breath Testing device (EBT). Which is conducted by a breath alcohol technician or screening test technician.
6. Who is required to take alcohol tests under DOT rules?
All safety-sensitive employees regulated by the FMCSA, FAA, FRA, PHMSA, and USCG must undergo alcohol testing in specific circumstances including pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and return-to-duty situations. Check with each agency for specific alcohol testing requirements.
7. What is an EtG alcohol test?
The EtG (Ethyl Glucuronide) test detects alcohol metabolites in urine, providing evidence of drinking for up to 3-4 (80 hours) days after consumption. It’s often used for court, treatment, and monitoring programs.
8. Can I order an alcohol test for personal reasons?
Yes. Individuals can order confidential alcohol tests through Accredited Drug Testing for personal, legal, or employment purposes. No doctor’s order is required, and same-day appointments are available nationwide. Call us at 800-221-4291 or you can register online.
9. What is the difference between breath and urine alcohol testing?
Breath tests measure current impairment, while urine tests detect alcohol metabolites to determine if alcohol was consumed recently—even after it’s left your bloodstream.
10. How fast are alcohol test results available?
Instant breath alcohol test results are available immediately at the testing site. Lab-based test results are typically ready within 24-48 hours from the time the specimen arrives at the lab. Hair and blood testing results may take additional analysis time.
11. Is alcohol testing confidential?
Yes. All alcohol testing conducted through Accredited Drug Testing is completely confidential. Results are securely delivered to authorized recipients only.
12. What happens if an employee tests positive for alcohol?
Under DOT regulations, a positive result (BAC ≥ 0.04%) requires immediate removal from safety-sensitive duties and referral to a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) before returning to work. In a private workplace setting, please refer to your employer's drug free workplace policy.
13. Can medications or mouthwash affect test results?
Some mouthwashes or medications contain small amounts of alcohol that may cause temporary positives. Confirmatory laboratory testing distinguishes between true alcohol use and incidental exposure.
14. What are employer alcohol testing program types?
Employers commonly use pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, and return-to-duty testing programs to maintain safety and compliance.
15. Where can I get an alcohol test near me?
Accredited Drug Testing has over 10,000 locations nationwide. Call 800-221-4291 or order online to schedule your same-day alcohol test.
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