How long does hair drug test take for results
How Long Does a Hair Drug Test Take for Results and What to Expect
How long does hair drug test take for results? Typically, hair follicle drug test results take 3 to 5 business days after sample collection. The test analyzes drug metabolites deposited in hair, offering a detection window up to 90 days. Results are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer. Call (877) 731-6362 to schedule or get more information.
How long does a hair follicle drug test results take to process?
Hair follicle drug test results typically take between 3 and 5 business days after the sample arrives at the lab. This timeframe includes sample analysis by one of AMH Nationwide’s five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, and ExperTox.
The lab performs specialized testing to detect drug metabolites embedded in the hair shaft, which requires more processing time than urine tests. After testing, every non-negative result is reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) to ensure accuracy and compliance with federal standards.
What is the detection window for a hair drug test?
A hair follicle drug test detects drug use over an extended period, typically up to 90 days prior to the test. Drugs enter the hair follicle via the bloodstream and become trapped in the hair shaft as it grows.
This extended detection window allows hair testing to identify chronic or past drug use, unlike urine or saliva tests that detect recent use within hours or days.
How is the hair drug test collected and processed?
A small sample of hair, about 100 strands or the width of a pencil, is cut close to the scalp, usually from the crown area. This sample is sent to one of AMH Nationwide’s five national lab networks for analysis.
The labs use scientifically validated methods to extract and identify drug metabolites. This testing is more complex than urine screening, which contributes to the longer turnaround time.
Who typically orders hair follicle drug testing?
Hair drug testing is commonly ordered by employers, courts, probation officers, and other agencies requiring long-term drug use verification. It is favored when recent and historical drug use needs to be assessed.
Individuals may also request hair drug testing for personal reasons or legal purposes. AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and directs clients to one of the nationwide collection sites. There is no option for online ordering.
Schedule Hair Drug Testing or Get More Information
To arrange hair follicle drug testing or discuss your specific needs, call (877) 731-6362. AMH Nationwide will provide the lab order and direct you to a convenient collection site.
Is hair drug testing accepted for DOT-regulated safety-sensitive employees?
Hair drug testing is not accepted for Department of Transportation (DOT) regulated safety-sensitive positions. DOT requires urine testing following the federally certified protocol under 49 CFR Part 40.
Hair testing may be used for non-DOT roles but is not compliant with DOT drug testing regulations.
Can hair drug test results be influenced by external factors or passive exposure?
Hair drug tests are highly reliable and designed to detect drug metabolites incorporated internally, not just surface contamination. Laboratories perform washing steps to remove external contaminants before analysis.
Passive exposure to drugs like smoke is unlikely to produce a positive result. The certified Medical Review Officer reviews any non-negative test to confirm legitimacy.
How much does hair follicle drug testing cost?
Pricing for hair follicle drug tests varies depending on the drug panel selected and the detection window required. Because of these variables, AMH Nationwide does not publish fixed prices.
To get a price quote or schedule testing, call (877) 731-6362.
Common Questions
Results typically take 3 to 5 business days after the sample reaches the lab. This includes analysis by one of five national lab networks and review by a certified Medical Review Officer.
Hair drug tests detect drug use from about 7 days after use up to 90 days. Drugs must be incorporated into the hair shaft as it grows, so very recent use may not be detected.
No, DOT requires urine drug testing under 49 CFR Part 40. Hair testing is used for non-DOT roles only.
No, hair testing labs wash samples to remove external contamination. Passive exposure is unlikely to cause a positive result.
A small sample of hair, about 100 strands or the width of a pencil, is cut close to the scalp, usually from the crown area.
Call (877) 731-6362 to get the lab order and be directed to a nearby collection site. AMH Nationwide 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.