12-Month Hair Drug Test: FAQ | AMH Nationwide
12-Month Hair Drug Test FAQ: Understand Long-Term Drug Detection Benefits
The 12-month hair drug test FAQ provides detailed answers about this long-term drug detection method. It analyzes hair samples to detect drug use over the past year. This test is commonly used for employment and legal purposes. Call (877) 731-6362 for assistance with lab collection and test scheduling.
What is a 12-month hair drug test?
A 12-month hair drug test is a laboratory analysis that detects drug metabolites in a hair sample representing up to one year of drug use. Hair grows approximately half an inch per month, so a 6-inch hair strand can provide a 12-month detection window.
This test is used to identify patterns of drug use over time rather than recent consumption. It is not regulated under DOT for safety-sensitive positions but is commonly used in employment screening and legal cases.
How does the 12-month hair drug test detect drugs over such a long period?
The 12-month hair drug test detects drugs by analyzing hair segments up to 6 inches in length. Each half-inch segment corresponds to roughly one month of hair growth and drug incorporation.
Drugs and their metabolites enter the hair follicle through the bloodstream and become trapped in the hair shaft. This allows laboratories to identify drug use history over the past year by segmental analysis of the hair sample.
How is hair collected for the 12-month hair drug test?
Hair is collected at an authorized collection site designated by AMH Nationwide. A small sample of hair, usually about 100-120 strands, is cut close to the scalp from the crown area.
The sample must be at least 6 inches long to cover the full 12-month detection period. AMH directs the requester to one of five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox for collection.
What happens after hair collection for the 12-month hair drug test?
After collection, the hair sample is sent to the laboratory for segmental analysis to detect specific drugs or drug classes. Standard panels test for substances such as marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP.
All non-negative screening results are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) to ensure accuracy and interpret findings before final reporting.
Need a 12-Month Hair Drug Test?
Call (877) 731-6362 to get your lab order and find a nearby collection site through AMH Nationwide’s national lab networks.
How do I arrange a 12-month hair drug test and what does it cost?
AMH Nationwide does not offer online ordering. To arrange a 12-month hair drug test, call (877) 731-6362 to obtain a lab order and be directed to an appropriate collection site within the five national lab networks.
Pricing varies depending on the drug panel selected and detection window specifics. Contact AMH for a personalized quote.
What are the limitations of the 12-month hair drug test?
The 12-month hair drug test cannot detect drug use within the past 7 days due to the time required for hair to grow above the scalp. It is also not suitable for DOT-regulated safety-sensitive testing, which requires urine testing under 49 CFR Part 40.
Hair treatments like bleaching or dyeing may affect test accuracy. Additionally, very short hair or lack of sufficient hair length can prevent testing.
Common Questions
The 12-month hair drug test can detect many common drugs including marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Specific panels may vary, so confirm with AMH which substances will be tested for your particular needs.
Results typically take 5 to 7 business days after the lab receives the hair sample. The process includes screening, confirmation testing if needed, and Medical Review Officer review before final reporting.
Hair color and texture can influence drug incorporation levels, but laboratories use validated methods to minimize bias. However, testing accuracy can be impacted by chemical treatments such as bleaching or dyeing.
Because drugs are incorporated into the hair shaft from the bloodstream, it is difficult to cheat the 12-month hair drug test. However, some may attempt to use hair treatments or wear wigs. Collection protocols help ensure sample integrity.
If hair is too short or unavailable, a 12-month hair drug test cannot be performed. Alternative testing methods, such as urine or oral fluid testing, may be recommended depending on the detection window needed.
No, the 12-month hair drug test is not accepted for DOT-regulated safety-sensitive testing. DOT requires urine testing under federally certified protocols (49 CFR Part 40). Hair testing is used for non-DOT purposes only.
Ready to get started?
AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and arranges collection nationwide. Every non-negative result reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer. Call (877) 731-6362 or contact us.