USCG Drug Testing

Information for USCG Drug Testing

USCG Drug Testing Regulations

USCG drug testing regulations require employees to choose one of the following options for drug testing:

USCG drug testing includes dangerous drugs screened with a DOT 5-panel drug test. Dangerous drugs include amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana, opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). The Coast Guard drug test examines urine for dangerous substances. Urine samples must be analyzed by SAMHSA-approved drug testing labs.

Coast Guard drug testing requirements include pre-employment, random, reasonable cause, post-accident, and periodic drug testing.

Coast Guard Drug Testing Policy

Each employer is required to submit a written drug and alcohol testing policy to their employees. The policy will state that all personnel must submit to drug and alcohol testing. Employees include all full-time, part-time, seasonal, contracted, and year-round workers.

Employers are not required to terminate an employee for a failed drug test on their Coast Guard drug testing policy, however, the policy must state that any employee with a drug test violation will be immediately removed from their safety-sensitive responsibilities. Each employer is responsible for deciding whether a failed drug test will result in termination.

USCG drug testing policies should also clearly state the employer's position on the possession of drugs, paraphernalia, the use of prescription drugs, and over-the-counter drugs.

Crew members should also sign a statement that they have read and agree to the Coast Guard drug testing policy.

USCG Drug Testing Program

Once the drug testing policy is set, employers should develop a USCG drug testing program. The program should include:

Coast Guard Background Check for Pre-Employment

Employees that will work in safety-sensitive positions must submit to background checks. After obtaining the employee's permission with a signature, employers will check for previous drug and alcohol testing information that includes alcohol tests that resulted in more than 0.04 percent blood-alcohol level or higher, positive drug tests, drug test refusals, and other violations of DOT drug and alcohol testing.