Nail Drug Test
Nail Drug Test for Extended Drug Detection and Reliable Results
A nail drug test detects drug metabolites in fingernails or toenails, providing a longer detection window than urine tests. It is used when extended drug history is needed. AMH Nationwide routes collections to five national labs and reviews all non-negative results with a Medical Review Officer. Call (877) 731-6362.
What is a nail drug test and how does it work?
A nail drug test analyzes drug metabolites embedded in the keratin of fingernails or toenails. It captures drug use over weeks to months, longer than urine or saliva tests. The test involves clipping nail samples, which are sent to one of AMH Nationwide’s five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, and ExperTox. Each sample undergoes laboratory analysis with confirmatory testing as needed.
How long can a nail drug test detect drug use?
A nail drug test can detect drug use from approximately 7 days up to 90 days prior to collection, depending on nail length and growth rate. This extended detection window makes it valuable for employers or legal cases requiring a longer look-back period.
Compared to other testing methods, nail testing provides the longest detection timeframe.
| Test Type | Typical Detection Window |
|---|---|
| Urine Drug Test | 1-4 days |
| Saliva Drug Test | 1-3 days |
| Hair Drug Test | Up to 90 days |
| Nail Drug Test | 7 to 90 days |
What is the difference between fingernail drug test and toenail drug test?
Both fingernail and toenail drug tests detect drug metabolites in keratin, but there are practical differences.
Fingernail samples are easier to collect and may reflect more recent drug use due to faster growth, while toenail samples grow slower and may capture a longer history. The choice depends on availability of samples and the specific testing requirements.
How do I get a nail drug test through AMH Nationwide?
AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and directs you to a nearby collection site within one of the five national lab networks. There is no online ordering available. To initiate testing, call (877) 731-6362 to speak with a representative who will arrange the lab order and collection instructions.
The collection site will securely collect nail clippings following chain of custody protocols and send them to the designated lab for analysis.
Schedule Your Nail Drug Test Today
Call (877) 731-6362 to arrange your nail drug test with AMH Nationwide. We will direct you to a certified collection site and ensure professional lab testing.
What happens after nail samples are collected?
After collection, the nail samples are sent to one of AMH Nationwide’s five national labs for testing. Each sample undergoes screening using validated analytical methods. Any non-negative results are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) who evaluates medical explanations before final reporting.
This process ensures accuracy and compliance with testing standards.
Who typically orders a nail drug test and why?
Nail drug tests are ordered by employers, legal entities, and rehabilitation programs requiring extended detection of drug use history. They are useful when urine or saliva tests do not provide a sufficient detection window.
They are not used for DOT-regulated safety-sensitive testing, which requires federally certified urine testing under 49 CFR Part 40. Nail testing is reserved for non-DOT roles or specialized needs.
What does a nail drug test cost?
Pricing for a nail drug test varies depending on the drug panel selected and detection window required. AMH Nationwide does not provide fixed prices online. To obtain a quote, call (877) 731-6362 for detailed pricing information tailored to your testing needs.
Common Questions
Nail drug tests can detect many common drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Detection depends on the drug panel ordered and the lab’s capabilities.
No special preparation is required. Avoid cutting nails too short before collection as sufficient sample length is needed for accurate testing.
No. The test involves clipping small pieces of fingernails or toenails, which is painless and non-invasive.
Results typically take between 3 to 7 business days after the lab receives the sample, depending on test complexity.
Yes, many employers use nail drug tests for extended detection, especially when hair testing is not suitable. However, DOT-regulated workplaces require urine testing.
Yes, nail polish, artificial nails, or other cosmetic treatments can interfere with sample collection or testing accuracy. Inform the collection site if these are present.
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.