In the age of legalized cannabis use, it may seem odd that 56% of American employers still require job candidates to take pre-employment drug tests for THC, the main psychoactive ingredient of marijuana.
That said, there’s a lot of people who use cannabis or prescription drugs for a certain medical condition, and many of them see such testing requirements as privacy violations.
Fortunately, there’s plenty of good jobs that don’t drug test job seekers for cannabis use.
From unskilled to highly professional work, lots of private sector companies operate a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy that seems far more in touch with 21st-century life in contrast to stringent pre-employment drug test requirements.
Of course, some organizations implement drug test policies for good reasons, such as ensuring safety of other employees and the public. This is especially true for military service, law enforcement and other government agencies.
Keep reading to learn more or feel free to jump to our list of employers that don’t perform alcohol and drugs test.
Do all jobs drug test applicants?
No, not all jobs require alcohol or drugs test for jobseekers. Generally, any vocation falls into one of the three categories.
1. Safety-sensitive work
This term means that if the worker is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it could impair their ability to do their job, and, as a result, this could lead to the worker’s and other people safety being threatened.
2. Drug-free workplace jobs
A company in the private sector usually decides their own drug testing policies. This means if the job position isn’t safety-sensitive, employers may still introduce drug tests, because they believe people who use cannabis are less productive.
While you’ll need to consent to their drug testing policy, in most cases you’ll only need to undergo a pre-employment drug test. If it’s an office job, usually you don’t have to worry about random drug tests, unless there’s reasonable suspicion.
However, jobs that fall into this category can vary widely, so it’s best to check before applying.
3. No drug test jobs
The last category is for jobs that don’t mandate any pre-employment drug screening at all. The reason why many companies don’t require drug testing is two-fold.
- Firstly, it’s relatively easy to pass a drug test, given there’s enough time to prepare.
- Secondly, good managers don’t want to deter a talented job applicant, who can be hired by a competitor.
Also, many companies have recently excluded marijuana from drug testing due to legalization of cannabis use, especially in California.
We’re going to have a look at best jobs that fall into this category in a moment, but first, let’s answer an important question.
How do I find out if a company drug tests?
There are three easy ways of finding information about company’s drug testing policies.
1. Check employer bids
The first way is to read the job advertisement closely. Usually, if drug testing is part of the hiring process, it’ll be mentioned in job ads.
2. Simply ask them
If you’ve scoured the advert and have found no mention of a drug test, then there is a good chance you won’t need to pass one. But you can confirm this by contacting HR department of the company.
It’s perfectly normal to ask about drug testing, but you may ask a few more questions to avoid looking suspicious.
3. Use online search terms
Another method is to search information online, and it works best for a large company. The word of mouth will be out there, especially if the company does require drug testing.
You can also look for a list of companies that don’t drug test, such as the one we’ve compiled below. In fact, many well-known companies don’t have drug testing procedures for prospective employees.
Additionally, you can research the job position you’re applying for and see if drug testing is a standard procedure of the hiring process. Many Internet services let you set up a job alert for the type of offers you’re interested in.
10 types of jobs that don’t require a drug test
There are some fantastic jobs that don’t have any drug testing requirements at all. This way, you’ll never need to worry about giving urine samples and can instead focus on doing a job that you enjoy in a more enlightened work environment.
1. Retail stores
When it comes to regular jobs that don’t drug test, working for a retail store is a solid option. Many large retail stores across the United States don’t have strict drug-free workplace policies.
You can get a job offer and employee benefits at Whole Foods, Gap, Goodwill, Kroger, and Target without needing to forfeit privacy or change your way of life.
2. Real estate
Many good jobs don’t require drug testing in the real estate sector. One of the best is working as an agent. You’ll get a reasonable commission from the sales of properties.
And, since you’ll be legally classified as a contractor rather than full-time employee, you won’t need to worry about drug screening policies at all.
3. Beauty sector
Beauty salons are another area where employers aren’t particularly interested if an employee is using medical marijuana or prescription drugs. There are some great jobs to do in this sector too.
For example, nail technicians earn $25,000 a year on average, while professional makeup artists who work on film sets bring home $66,000 a year. Top makeup artists can earn as much as $121,000 a year.
4. Tech sector
In a field where creativity and thinking outside the box are encouraged, it’s only natural that drug tests are of no interest to employers. In fact, even alcohol use isn’t prohibited at Google’s offices.
Many big tech companies, including Apple, Facebook, Google, and Microsoft, have no issue with employees consuming recreational and medical marijuana, as long as it doesn’t negatively impact their ability to complete the job.
Other tech companies like AT&T, Cisco, HP, Intel, and Adobe don’t have any drug testing policies either. From mobile app developers to IT consultants, there are many fantastic vocations that fall into the technology sector, for example:
- Computer programmer
- Computer animator
- Web designer
It’s now known that Steve Jobs has smoked cannabis, and both him and Bill Gates enjoyed LSD. It wouldn’t be a surprise if someone else famous is getting their creativity from MDMA or even a combination of drugs.
5. Design studios
For people with design skills, there’s more than one way to make a living through careers that don’t drug test. People who are interested in creating beautiful homes may want to consider a career as an interior designer.
More tech-savvy people may be interested in becoming a graphic designer. And for gamers, why not consider becoming a video game designer? Regardless of the way you go with your design skills, you’ll always be safe from archaic drug test requirements.
6. Management positions
There’s no doubt that success brings many perks. And if you move up the ladder and become the boss, no person will be asking if you’ve got PCP or THC in your system.
You don’t even need to be the boss of a company. You need to find a job at the higher management level. A person in these positions tends to be left alone.
7. Restaurants
Some of the big restaurant chains, such as Chipotle Mexican Grill, don’t perform a background check, and a restaurant manager can earn on average $47,000 a year without needing to provide a urine sample.
Other well-known chains like Starbucks can request drug tests from employees if they suspect drug use, but this is incredibly rare. New job applicants aren’t tested upon hire at Starbucks.
8. Flower shops
Spending all day surrounded by colorful, sweet-smelling flowers can be appealing for many. And a flower shop certainly isn’t going to run background checks on someone who happens to be a connoisseur of another kind of flower.
This laid-back work can be done both full-time and part-time. Pay will be dictated by the shop’s location with people in big cities earning more than those upstate.
That said, there’s also a lot of room for ambitious people to move up the ranks at big flower companies like FTD or Flower Factory.
9. Engineering
There are lots of high-paying jobs that don’t drug test in the engineering sector, which is to be expected when innovation is more important than conservatism.
That’s why TESLA, in fact, will only drug test people who work on safety-sensitive positions. Engineers at TESLA won’t be subjected to randomized drug testing. Nor will TESLA ever test for marijuana in states where it is legal.
Engineering jobs are also very well remunerated. The top ten percent with education in each engineering field will usually earn more than $150,000 a year1.
10. Freelance
Being their own boss is a dream job for individuals who love independence and freedom. And there are some great opportunities to find enjoyable, well-paid freelance work too.
In case you’re a writer or photographer, you won’t need to submit to drug testing to please clients. That’s because as a freelancer, you’re not an employee of a company but simply a contractor.
As long as you deliver the work, clients won’t be interested in what substances you consume in your free time. In fact, there are quite a few freelance jobs where the only information they will have about you is your email address.
Freelancing can be well-paid too. For example, some top freelance photographers are paid more than $70,000 a year, while the average pay is around $42,000.
FAQ
Do they drug test you before donating plasma?
No. After you’ve made a donation, your plasma will be screened for hepatitis B and C, HIV, HTLV, syphilis, WNV, and ZIKV, but it’s not a standard procedure to test blood for drug use.
What kind of drug test does workers’ comp use?
It’ll depend on state laws whether drug testing post-accident will be required or not. In case accident was caused under the influence of drugs or alcohol, a person may be subjected to urine, blood, hair or saliva test by their employer.
Do they drug test for disability and social security?
No, you won’t need to undergo drug testing when applying for disability insurance or social security payments. However, you’ll be asked about substance use during the application procedure, and it’s important to answer truthfully.
Unlike private insurance companies, SSA will be able to access your health records, meaning if you have a medical marijuana card or history of substance abuse, they will discover it. That said, the fact of having a medical cannabis card alone doesn’t lead to cancelled disability services in most cases.
Do internships and temp agencies drug test?
Employers can require interns to pass a drug test, even if job position is unpaid. Generally, the same rules apply for regular jobs and internships. Staffing agencies also have the right of drug testing employees, but, in reality, it depends on the type of job you’re applying for.
Do law firms drug test?
Law firms have the right to drug test their employees, but the chance of that is very low unless a person’s activity is raising suspicion. If you like to unwind with some marijuana at the end of the day, it probably won’t be an issue, but make sure you don’t show up at the workplace (or even worse, during court rulings) while stoned.
Conclusion
Pre-employment drug testing is common in safety-sensitive areas, such transportation industry or jobs requiring heavy machinery operation. In other fields, drug testing is simply unnecessary and can deter talented prospective employees.
That’s why companies like Tesla don’t see smoking weed outside of work hours making employees worse at their jobs. Using cannabis legally and responsively might even inspire you to come up with a great idea that can benefit the employer.
There are lots of great jobs available that won’t require you to pass a drug test. This includes designers, programmers, fitness trainers, screenwriters, producers and more.
Everything from being a law professional to working as freelance photographer can provide you with security, good pay, and you’ll be able to make choices that don’t compromise your privacy.
FAQs
Does target drug test new hires? ›
In accordance with Target's Drug Free Workplace (DFW) Policy, certain roles may require a mandatory drug screen as a condition of employment. If the role you've received an offer for requires a drug screen, you will be notified at the time of offer and be prompted with next steps during the screening process.
Can I keep my job if I fail a drug test? ›For the most part, no. If the test result is proven to be legitimate (especially after multiple retests), you will most likely lose your job. If drug testing was part of a screening application, the company will probably revoke your job offer.
Do they drug test at Chick Fil A? ›Pre-Employment Test
Drug tests are a common requirement for employment by Chick Fil A. The interview does not include a drug test.
No, Taco Bell does not drug test entry-level hires.
If you seek a manager-level role or higher, you may be drug tested during the hiring process at Taco Bell, even as an internal candidate.
Walgreens requires that all employees complete a drug test prior to employment as a condition of hiring. This drug screening will typically be conducted after the interview but before starting work at Walgreens. Walgreens has a strict drug and alcohol-free workplace policy.
Does Bath and Body Works drug test employees? ›No, they do not. Does Bath and body Works drug test their merchants or merchant in training employees? Do they drug test interns? No, basically no drug test at all.
How far back does a lab urine test go? ›What is the detection window for a lab-based, urine drug test? A: Urine drug testing typically detects recent drug use in the previous 24 to 72 hours.
Can I refuse a hair follicle test? ›If you refuse to take it or otherwise don't comply the Court will just assume it is because you think you would have tested positive. One way that it could be avoided would be to enter into an agreement to resolve the case instead of continuing with the court process.
Is it worse to fail a drug test or refuse? ›Your refusal to submit to a drug or alcohol test is generally equivalent to testing positive to a drug or alcohol test.
Does Panda Express drug test employees? ›No, Panda Express does not drug test prior to employment; however, they reserve the right to perform drug tests on an employee at any time if substance abuse is suspected or a workplace accident occurs.
Do you get drug tested at an interview? ›
In interviews, employers can only ask candidates if they use illegal drugs and if they're able to perform all required job duties. After a job offer is extended, a medical examination can be required as long as it is given to everyone at a similar level. What if a candidate tests positive for THC?
Does Chipotle drug test you? ›there isn't a process. Does Chipotle Mexican Grill have a drug test policy? Do we get drug test in California? no, no tests.
Do they drug test at Arby's? ›No, you will never have to take a drug test. Does Arby's have a drug test policy? No, they don't drug test.
Does Del Taco drug test their employees? ›6 answers. No, they don't. No, they do not drug test.
Does Taco Bell give employees free food? ›Free snacks, drinks and bagel & donut Fridays. Onsite childcare through Bright Horizons. Onsite dining center and game room (yes, there is a Taco Bell inside the building)
Does Delta 8 show up on drug tests? ›Delta-8 THC is a chemical found in cannabis with similar effects to traditional (delta-9) THC. Because delta-8 THC is similar to delta-9 THC, it can make you feel high and is likely to show up on a drug test.
What happens if I fail a Walgreens drug test? ›The company has a zero-tolerance policy in terms of drugs in the workplace. Even if an applicant or employee doesn't show any signs of impairment, if they test positive for the drug tests, they are going to be terminated.
What is a 5 panel urine drug test? ›Most 5-Panel drug tests include 5 commonly abused substances: marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and Phencyclidine (PCP). Commercial names for opiates include Codeine, Morphine, and Heroin (6 AM). Methamphetamine and MDMA are common amphetamines, and street names include Meth, Molly, Extract, and M.
Are you allowed to drug test employees? ›Drug testing and your rights
Your employer may decide to test employees for drugs. To do this, however, they need the agreement of employees. This should normally be given where your employer has grounds for testing you under a full contractual occupational health and safety policy.
Would they still hold that against me? No, Bath and Body also does a background check. No, it is against company policy. All applicants must pass a background check prior to being hired.
Do Bath and Body Works employees get free stuff? ›
hours can be cut if they don't make a certain amount during the day so you need to know how to sell products/the sales they have to people. What's nice is that they give you free stuff once or every two months. They also have a certain month where they offer bath and body works products (returns) for $5 a bag.
What is the most common drug test for employment? ›Urinalysis – A urine test is the most common form of pre-employment drug testing and is typically conducted once a conditional offer of employment has been sent. A urine test can show traces of drug use even after the effects of the drug have worn off and remain in the body for an extended period of time.
What happens when a drug test is sent to a lab? ›Lab-based drug testing is when samples are sent to a certified laboratory to undergo an initial screening test and more stringent confirmatory testing for drugs (e.g., cocaine, marijuana, and amphetamines) and specimen validity (e.g., to determine if the sample has been tampered with).
How much urine do you need for a labcorp drug test? ›Specimen Requirements
3 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)
Additionally, both Ruggeri and Hill mention that ACV can support hair growth by removing product buildup, especially from commonly used items like dry shampoo. "ACV unblocks follicles in the scalp so that strands have freedom to thrive," Ruggeri says.
What shampoo will pass a hair follicle test? ›Ultra Clean shampoo by Zydot is one of the most widely used products among persons who want to pass a hair drug test. Unlike products such as Old Style Aloe Toxin Rid, this product is designed for same-day use.
Can you refuse a drug test due to religion? ›For instance, refusing drug tests for religious reasons may be grounds to file an employment discrimination lawsuit against an employer in court if an employee can prove that their employer only forces people who practice a certain religion to submit to a drug test.
How do you say no to a drug test? ›You must be placed on the agenda ahead of time. Be armed with information. Tell them why you are opposed to your school's drug testing policy and how the policy violates your rights as a student. Include some quotes and facts from the experts that will help you make a strong, clear argument.
What happens if you refuse to pee for a drug test? ›If you are unable to provide a sufficient amount of urine for a drug test, the collector must begin the "shy bladder" procedures. This procedure requires that you remain at the collection site.
What are the 3 reasons for rejection and cancellation of drug test? ›Rejected for Testing” (with the reason stated). You must always cancel such a test. (b) The following are “fatal flaws”: (1) There is no printed collector's. no collector's signature; (2) The specimen ID numbers on. the specimen bottle and the CCF do not match; (3) The specimen.
Does Burger King drug test employees? ›
No, Burger King does not drug test employees before employment. However, while there is no company-wide requirement for drug testing either before or during employment, some independent franchise owners may require a pre-employment drug test for all employees.
Do consultants drug test? ›Will My Consulting Firm Do a Drug Test? Generally speaking, our users shared that the firms themselves often don't do drug testing but the clients that you consult for will sometimes request it. Your staffing will often determine if you are tested.
Is it hard to get hired at Panda? ›Panda Express regularly needs to hire individuals who consistently work hard. A hiring manager contacts eligible workers to schedule job interviews after receiving and reviewing the appropriate forms. Applicants generally hear back from within a week or two and schedule interviews according to availability.
Can you refuse a drug test at an interview? ›You have the right to refuse a drug test, and the employer has the right to refuse you a job on that basis. State laws may impose some procedural rules on how an employer tests. For example, the employer may have to use a certified laboratory or give you an opportunity to explain a positive result.
Does Aldi do drug tests? ›Aldi drug test policy 2022
Aldi does substance testing on each applicant before hiring due to its priority of upholding a substance-free workplace.
During the test
Hair is collected as close to the scalp as possible, near the hair's root, to provide information about recent drug use. A standard sample of hair is around 1.5 inches, although in some cases a longer sample may be collected for additional history of drug use and misuse.
- A saliva test is usually used to detect signs of illegal drugs, like cannabis, amphetamines, methamphetamines, cocaine or heroin.
- A urine test can also detect benzodiazepine prescription drugs, like relaxants and sleeping pills (for example, Valium or Xanax).
If a company tests for drug use, it is most often part of the pre-employment screening process and would be required after the employer has offered the prospective employee a job, pending the results of the drug test. A failed drug test could result in the job offer being withdrawn.
Is getting a job at Chipotle easy? ›No, it is not hard to get a job at Chipotle Mexican Grill.
The interview process is pretty straightforward for a retail position and typically includes just a single 15-minute interview. If you're applying for a position at a retail location as a food associate, then it is not hard to get a job there.
No, Dunkin' Donuts does not drug test its employees.
However, Dunkin' Donuts requires that employees complete a drug test if an employee is involved in a work accident or other incident.
What is the youngest age Arby's hire? ›
You must be at least 16 years old to work at Arby's. That is the minimum age requirement for using the deep fryers. You must be able to use the deep fryers to work or be around one.
What is the youngest Arby's hire? ›While 16 years old is the general minimum age for Arby's, there are certain duties that cannot be performed by 16-year-olds. These include: Operating the deep fryer. Operating the meat slicer.
Does Taco Bell drug test at the interview? ›No, Taco Bell does not drug test entry-level hires.
If you seek a manager-level role or higher, you may be drug tested during the hiring process at Taco Bell, even as an internal candidate.
Average Del Taco Cashier hourly pay in California is approximately $14.30, which is 18% above the national average.
What should I wear to a Del Taco interview? ›- Business casual (e.g. dress slacks)41%
- Casual (t-shirt and jeans)32%
- They didn't have a dress code17%
- Formal (business suit)6%
- Special outfit (e.g. protective gear)4%
If you are obsessed with chicken nuggets, or can't get enough Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade, then working at Chick-fil-A might be your happy place. Bonus: many local franchise owners offer team members a free meal during their shift. 5. You'll make lifelong friendships.
Do employees of McDonald's Eat Free? ›One Free Meal Per Shift
Similar to KFC, hourly employees at McDonald's who decide to do a full shift are eligible for 1 full meal. To make things better, they have the freedom to choose what they want for their meal (except for menu items from McCafe).
You do get 2 30 min breaks.
Is Target Picky about who they hire? ›It can be competitive trying to get a job at a Target warehouse, drug test is currently required for some new hires. It is a good place to work and they can be picky about hiring.
How long does it take to get hired at Target? ›On average it takes 5 business days but can be much quicker. If it has been longer than a week and you want to follow up on the status of your interview contact HR at the location you applied to or the Recruiter who invited you to the video interview.
What is Target's termination policy? ›
In the U.S., employees are commonly hired “at will.” This gives employers, such as Target, the right to fire an employee whenever they want, with or without any reason, as long as the termination is not illegal.
How long does it take for target to get back to you? ›Read 22 answers
It Took approximately about a week. A week. Not too long after submitting the application. It only took about a week, I first had a phone interview, then had a face to face.
As a minimum age requirement, you must be at least 16 years old to work at Walmart and 18 at Sam's Club. Certain positions, however, require a minimum age of 18. As you prepare to complete your application have your prior work history available.
What is the youngest Target hire? ›- You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a Target store job.
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Target Distribution Center job.
- You must be able to provide proof of legal aurthorization to work in the United States.
A cashier, because its easy to learn and it helps with customer service skills. If physically able, getting shopping carts. A cashier is a great start.
How often does Target pay? ›employees are paid every two weeks.
How do I quit Target? ›You can quit your job at Target online through Workday. After logging into your account, you can go into your profile and pick "Job Change" and then "Resign." You should enter your last day at work, which should ideally include a two weeks notice.
How many times can you call out at Target? ›Three per year but they hold that time agaist you. They call it accountable time. Target believes that you come to work on the days that you work any missed day are accounted for unless you have a accurate doctors note. Zero paid sick days, you have i call in if you're sick.
Can you work at Walmart if you were terminated? ›Normally you can be rehired unless you are informed that the nature of your termination does not allow. Although you can appeal the decision within 30 days of the termination. With other terminations you can be rehired after 60 (or 90?)
Does Target pay you after you quit? ›It should be at the usual payday. Sometimes the store will receive your paycheck so go back in and talk to HR. If they do receive it, they will send it out to you.
What is Walmart policy on termination? ›
Employment with Walmart is on an at-will basis, which means that either Walmart or the associate is free to terminate the employment relationship at any time for any or no reason, consistent with applicable law.
Is Target a good place to work? ›69% of employees at Target Corporation say it is a great place to work compared to 57% of employees at a typical U.S.-based company. Source: Great Place To Work® 2021 Global Employee Engagement Study.
How many interviews does Target do? ›The standard at Target is two face-to-face interviews, first with a team lead and then with a manager. The interview types and amount may vary though based on the position you are applying for. I had two interviews.
How do I ace my Target interview? ›During the interview
Try to keep your interview conversational. Manage your response time to each question. Aim for about five minutes per question. Give responses that relate to the required skills and Target values mentioned in each question to succeed in the job.