12-Month Hair Drug Test: Complete Guide | AMH Nationwide
Comprehensive 12-Month Hair Drug Test Guide for Extended Detection
The 12-month hair drug test guide explains how this test detects drug use over the past year by analyzing a 12-inch hair sample. Employers, legal entities, and individuals often order it for long-term drug monitoring. AMH Nationwide manages lab orders and collection appointments through five national lab networks. Call (877) 731-6362 for details.
What is a 12-month hair drug test?
A 12-month hair drug test detects drug metabolites embedded in hair strands over the previous year. It requires a 12-inch hair sample, as hair grows approximately one inch per month. This test identifies drug use patterns over an extended period, unlike urine or saliva tests, which detect recent use.
The test analyzes substances such as marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and phencyclidine (PCP). Because hair retains drug metabolites longer than other biological samples, it is effective for long-term drug monitoring.
Who typically orders a 12-month hair drug test?
Employers, legal agencies, probation officers, and individuals use the 12-month hair drug test for comprehensive drug use history. It is common in workplace drug screening when extended detection is necessary.
The test is often ordered to verify abstinence or past drug use over a year, in child custody cases, or to comply with legal requirements. It is also used when urine or saliva tests are insufficient due to their short detection windows.
What is the detection window for the 12-month hair drug test?
The detection window for this test spans approximately 12 months, based on the length of hair analyzed. Hair grows about one inch per month, so a 12-inch sample reflects drug use over a full year.
This extended window allows detection of drug metabolites long after they would clear from urine or blood. It provides a detailed timeline of drug exposure but does not indicate exact usage dates within the year.
| Test Type | Typical Detection Window |
|---|---|
| Urine Drug Test | 1-7 days |
| Saliva Drug Test | 1-3 days |
| Blood Drug Test | 1-2 days |
| Hair Drug Test (12-month) | Up to 12 months |
How is a 12-month hair drug test collected?
Collection involves cutting a 12-inch hair sample close to the scalp, usually from the crown or back of the head. If head hair is unavailable, body hair may be used, although it may affect detection accuracy.
AMH Nationwide directs the requester to a nearby collection site within its five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, and ExperTox. The collection process is non-invasive and requires no special preparation.
Ready to Schedule Your 12-Month Hair Drug Test?
Call (877) 731-6362 to speak with a representative who will assist with the lab order and collection site appointment.
What happens after the hair sample is collected?
After collection, the hair sample is sent to one of AMH Nationwide’s five national laboratory partners for testing. The labs use validated methods to detect drug metabolites embedded in the hair shaft.
Any non-negative results undergo review by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) as part of standard processing. The MRO evaluates the findings and may contact the tested individual for additional information before releasing results.
How do I get started with a 12-month hair drug test?
To begin, contact AMH Nationwide at (877) 731-6362 to request lab order assistance. AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and directs you to a convenient collection site within the authorized national lab networks.
AMH does not offer online ordering. Pricing varies based on the testing panel and detection window. Call for a personalized quote and scheduling information.
Common Questions
The test detects common illicit substances, including marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Detection depends on the testing panel selected and the drug’s incorporation into hair.
Results typically take 3 to 5 business days after the lab receives the sample. The MRO review process may add additional time if further evaluation is needed.
No, collection is painless. A small hair sample is cut close to the scalp without discomfort or invasive procedures.
Hair treatments like bleaching or dyeing may reduce drug metabolite concentrations but generally do not prevent detection. Labs account for such factors during analysis.
The 12-month hair drug test is not approved for DOT-regulated safety-sensitive positions, which require federally certified urine testing under 49 CFR Part 40. Hair testing is used for non-DOT roles.
Call (877) 731-6362 to request a lab order and be directed to a collection site within AMH’s five national lab networks. AMH does not offer online ordering.
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.