9-Month Hair Drug Test: FAQ | AMH Nationwide
9-Month Hair Drug Test FAQ for Reliable Long-Term Drug Detection
The 9-month hair drug test FAQ provides detailed answers about this long-term drug detection method using hair samples. This test detects drug use over approximately nine months by analyzing hair segments. The collection is routed through five national lab networks. Call (877) 731-6362 for more information.
What is a 9-month hair drug test?
A 9-month hair drug test is a laboratory analysis that detects drug metabolites in hair samples representing about nine months of drug use history. Hair grows approximately half an inch per month, so a 4.5-inch hair sample is analyzed to cover this period. This test is used to identify past drug consumption in non-DOT safety-sensitive roles.
How does the 9-month hair drug test detect drug use?
The 9-month hair drug test detects drug metabolites deposited in the hair shaft as hair grows. Since hair grows about 0.5 inches per month, testing the most recent 4.5 inches of hair reflects drug use over nine months. Unlike urine tests that detect recent use, hair testing provides a longer detection window.
How is the 9-month hair drug test sample collected?
Sample collection involves cutting a small hair sample close to the scalp, usually from the crown. AMH directs the requester to a local collection site affiliated with one of five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox. There is no online ordering; the test must be arranged by calling (877) 731-6362.
What happens after the hair sample is collected?
After collection, the hair sample is sent to one of the five national labs for analysis using specialized instrumentation. Every non-negative result is reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) to confirm findings and rule out legitimate medical explanations. This ensures accuracy and compliance with testing standards.
Need a 9-Month Hair Drug Test?
Call (877) 731-6362 to schedule your test through AMH and access our network of national labs.
How accurate is the 9-month hair drug test?
The 9-month hair drug test is highly accurate for detecting drug use within the specified period when properly collected and analyzed. External contamination is minimized by laboratory washing procedures. However, the test does not detect very recent use within about 7 days and is intended only for non-DOT safety-sensitive positions.
How do I arrange a 9-month hair drug test and what does it cost?
To arrange a 9-month hair drug test, contact AMH by calling (877) 731-6362 to receive a lab order and collection site referral. There is no online ordering option. Pricing varies depending on the testing panel and detection window requested. Call for a specific quote tailored to your testing needs.
Common Questions
The test detects common drugs such as cocaine, marijuana, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Some labs may offer expanded panels, but detection depends on the drugs deposited in the hair over the nine-month period.
If hair is shorter than 4.5 inches, the detection window is reduced accordingly. The test can still be performed for a shorter period, but nine months of history may not be covered.
No. DOT-regulated safety-sensitive testing requires urine testing under the federally certified 49 CFR Part 40 protocol. Hair testing is only for non-DOT roles.
Typically, results are available within 3 to 5 business days after the lab receives the sample. Timing may vary depending on the lab workload and panel complexity.
Hair treatments may slightly affect drug metabolite levels, but labs apply washing procedures to minimize contamination. Significant chemical treatments can impact results, so it is important to disclose such treatments during collection.
All non-negative hair drug test results are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) who evaluates findings and verifies any legitimate medical explanations before finalizing the report.
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.