Court-Approved Drug and Alcohol Testing Services

In most jurisdictions, probation uses urine drug testing because it is reliable, widely accepted by courts, and able to detect recent drug use. The most common option is a panel urine test, which screens for multiple drugs at the same time. The specific drugs tested and the panel size depend on the probation order, the individual's history, and the court's policies. Some probation programs may also require alcohol testing in addition to drug screening.

Probation typically uses a urine drug test collected under controlled or supervised conditions to prevent tampering or substitution. Many courts require a supervised urine drug test through an approved testing provider to ensure proper chain of custody. The sample is sent to a certified laboratory for analysis, and results are reviewed before being reported to the probation officer or court.

The number of panels in a probation drug test depends on the court order. Many courts start with a 5-panel urine drug test, which screens for commonly abused substances. If there is a history of substance use or prior violations, the court may require a 10-panel or 12-panel drug test to screen for a broader range of drugs, including certain prescription medications.

When alcohol abstinence is required, probation often uses urine alcohol testing to detect recent alcohol consumption. One of the most common options is the EtG urine alcohol test, which can detect alcohol use for several days after drinking. In some cases, probation may also require breath alcohol testing, blood testing, or hair alcohol testing, depending on the court's requirements.

Yes. Many courts and probation officers use EtG urine testing because it can detect alcohol consumption within the past 70 to 80 hours. An EtG screen looks for the presence of ethyl glucuronide, a metabolite of ethanol, formed in the body after consuming alcoholic beverages. The EtG screen is often used for DUI/DWI hearings.

The probation drug test panel that is required, including whether EtG testing is included, depends on the individual case and the court order.

Testing frequency varies by court and probation program. Some individuals are required to call a phone line or check a system every day to see if their color has been selected. If your color is called, you must report for testing the same day and within the timeframe set by the court. Missing a test or failing to appear on time may be considered a probation violation.

In some cases, yes, you may receive a DUI drug test at your first court date. Whether testing occurs immediately depends on the jurisdiction, the charge, and the judge's order. Some courts conduct DUI urine tests or alcohol testing on the spot, while others require the individual to complete testing through a court-approved provider after the hearing.

Court ordered alcohol testing for DUI and probation cases may include urine alcohol tests, EtG urine testing, breath alcohol testing, or blood testing. The type of test used depends on the court's requirements and how far back alcohol use needs to be detected. Some tests are used to detect current intoxication, while others are used to verify abstinence over time.

Some courts use breath alcohol testing onsite to determine if someone is currently under the influence of alcohol. Other courts require individuals to complete breath alcohol testing or other alcohol tests at an approved clinic. Whether a breathalyzer is used at court depends on the jurisdiction and the specific case.

You can find court approved drug testing through providers that work directly with courts and probation departments. Health Street offers nationwide court-approved drug and alcohol testing with supervised collections and secure reporting. Test results can be sent directly to the court, probation officer, or attorney, helping you meet your legal requirements correctly and on time.