Nail Drug Test vs Hair Follicle Test
Nail Drug Test vs Hair Follicle Test: Choosing the Best Method for Long-Term Drug Detection
Nail drug test vs hair follicle test differ mainly in sample type and detection window. Nail tests analyze fingernails or toenails to detect drug use over several months, similar to hair follicle tests but with some unique advantages. Both tests are processed through national labs and reviewed by certified Medical Review Officers. Call (877) 731-6362 for guidance on which test fits your needs.
What is the difference between a nail drug test and a hair follicle test?
A nail drug test analyzes substances deposited in the keratin of fingernails or toenails, while a hair follicle test examines drugs embedded in hair shafts. Both tests detect drug use over extended periods, typically up to 90 days or more. Nail tests can sometimes detect drug use beyond the typical hair test window due to slower nail growth.
How do detection windows compare for nail vs hair drug tests?
Nail drug tests typically detect drug use from 7 days up to 6 months prior, depending on nail growth and sample length. Hair follicle tests generally detect drug use within the last 90 days, using a standard 1.5-inch hair sample. Nail tests may extend the detection window slightly longer because nails grow slower than hair.
How are nail and hair samples collected for drug testing?
Nail samples are collected by clipping fingernails or toenails, typically requiring a minimum length to ensure accurate analysis. Hair samples are cut close to the scalp, usually from the crown, to provide a 1.5-inch length representing approximately 90 days of growth. Both collections are done at authorized sites directed by AMH Nationwide.
Which test is more accurate, nail or hair drug testing?
Both nail and hair drug tests provide accurate long-term drug use detection when processed by certified labs. Each test type is reviewed by a Medical Review Officer to confirm results. Nail drug testing may be less susceptible to external contamination than hair testing, but hair testing is more established in employment and legal contexts.
Need Help Choosing Between Nail and Hair Drug Tests?
Contact AMH Nationwide to discuss your testing needs and get directed to an authorized collection site. Call (877) 731-6362.
Who typically orders nail drug tests compared to hair follicle tests?
Hair follicle tests are commonly ordered by employers, legal entities, and rehabilitation programs for long-term drug use screening. Nail drug tests are often used when hair samples are unavailable or insufficient, or when extended detection beyond 90 days is desired. Both tests are non-DOT; DOT-regulated testing requires urine under federal protocols.
How do I order a nail or hair drug test through AMH Nationwide?
AMH Nationwide provides lab orders and directs clients to local collection sites for both nail and hair drug tests. There is no online ordering; all requests require contacting AMH by phone. The collected samples are sent to a national lab network including Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox for analysis.
What are the cost differences between nail and hair drug tests?
Pricing for nail and hair drug tests varies based on the specific drug panel and detection window required. Costs depend on the complexity of the test and laboratory fees. For an accurate quote and to discuss which test fits your needs, call (877) 731-6362.
Common Questions
Yes. Nail drug tests can detect drug use up to 6 months due to slower nail growth, slightly longer than the 90-day window of standard hair follicle tests.
No. DOT-regulated safety-sensitive testing requires federally certified urine testing under 49 CFR Part 40. Hair and nail tests are used for non-DOT purposes.
If hair is insufficient or unavailable, a nail drug test can be used as an alternative since nails provide a similar long-term detection window.
All non-negative drug test results from nail and hair samples are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer as standard procedure.
No. AMH Nationwide does not offer online ordering. You must call (877) 731-6362 to request lab orders and be directed to a collection site.
Turnaround time varies by lab but typically ranges from several days to one week after sample collection and receipt by the lab.
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.