Drug Testing Services in
Raleigh, NC

In North Carolina, employment drug testing is allowed but not required. If employers choose to conduct pre-employment testing, they need to follow the Controlled Substance Examination Regulation Act (CSERA) specific procedures. This includes notifying employees of their rights and responsibilities, which the employer must legally provide. Employers in Raleigh are still able to create and enforce their own testing programs, including when and how tests are administered.

Both employers and individuals can get immediate drug testing in Raleigh and in all areas of North Carolina.The most common drug test is the 5 Panel Drug Test. Call 866-843-4545 if you need a drug test for any personal reason. 

What Kinds of Drug Tests Can Employers Conduct in North Carolina?

Under North Carolina law, employers have access to several drug testing methods, including testing urine, blood, oral fluid (saliva), or hair samples. These apply to safety-sensitive positions or during follow-up testing plans. 

Urine tests are the most common as they can spot drugs used in the past few days. Most drugs clear the system within 3–5 days, except THC, which can stay longer (up to 30 days for frequent users). 

Hair tests show drug use over a much longer time and can detect substances up to 90 days after use. Because of this, they’re used when employers want to see patterns of repeated use, not just one-time use. 

Saliva tests (oral fluid) check for very recent drug use—within the last 1 to 2 days. They’re fast, easy, and used on the spot. You’ll often see these used in roadside stops, post-accident testing, or for immediate workplace concerns.

The substances commonly detected include:

  • cocaine, 
  • methadone, 
  • opioids or opiates, 
  • barbiturates, 
  • cannabis, 
  • phencyclidine, 
  • amphetamines, 
  • methamphetamines, 
  • and benzodiazepines.


Employers typically test before hiring (if they choose to), after workplace incidents, or in random programs. 

You can find and order any number of drug tests to suit your personal or employment needs with National Drug Screening.

Can You Refuse A Drug Or Alcohol Test?

You don’t have to agree to a drug or alcohol test. However, a refusal to test has consequences sometimes more stringent than a positive drug test. It is usually better to take the drug test rather than refuse the drug test.

FAQs

Can Employers Do Random Drug Testing in North Carolina?

Yes, random drug testing is permitted in North Carolina. Though commonly used for safety-centric roles, any employer can implement it. There are no laws that ban random testing. Employers are required to clearly outline their testing process in a written policy, which needs to be shared with employees and updated as needed.
If you need help creating or updating your drug testing policy, contact National Drug Screening for tips or assistance creating a custom policy.

What Happens if You Fail a Drug Test in North Carolina for a Job?

When a drug test comes back positive, North Carolina law requires written notice to the employee. The employer must send that notice within a set time limit after getting the result. This notice has to include the result and explain your right to re-test your split sample at a second, certified lab.

Can I Be Fired for Refusing a Drug Test in North Carolina?

Refusing a drug test may lead to losing your job in North Carolina. Before starting work, most employees are asked to sign the employer’s drug testing policy. That policy usually states what the employer can do if a test is refused. If termination is listed as a possible outcome, the employer can legally enforce it. Always take your pre-employment drug test.

Can You Get Fired for Failing a Drug Test with a Medical Card in North Carolina?

Yes, many company policies outline termination of employment for any positive drug test. There is currently no medical marijuana law in North Carolina so there is no medical marijuana card. 
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