Do Failed Drug Tests Appear on Background Checks

Introduction and Overview of Drug Tests in Background Checks

What Is a Background Check?

A background check is a comprehensive review of an individual’s past, conducted to verify their identity, qualifications, and suitability for a role. Employers rely on background checks to assess potential risks associated with hiring a candidate. Common components of a background check include criminal records, education and employment history, credit reports, and drug test results.

In recent years, drug testing has become a significant aspect of pre-employment screening, particularly in industries where safety and productivity are critical. Employers use drug tests to ensure a drug-free workplace, minimize liability, and comply with regulations. But this raises a key question: does a failed drug test show up on a background check?


The Role of Drug Testing in Background Checks

The Role of Drug Testing in Background Checks

What Is a Drug Test in Employment Screening?

A drug test in employment screening is designed to detect the presence of illegal substances, prescription drugs, or alcohol in a candidate’s system. Employers often use drug testing as part of their background check process to ensure that potential hires can perform their duties safely and responsibly.

When Are Drug Tests Conducted?

Drug tests can be conducted at various stages of employment:

  1. Pre-Employment Screening: Before extending a formal job offer.
  2. Random Drug Testing: Periodically testing current employees without prior notice.
  3. Post-Accident Testing: After a workplace incident to determine if substance use was a contributing factor.
  4. Reasonable Suspicion Testing: When there’s credible evidence of drug use based on behavior or performance.

Do Failed Drug Tests Show Up on Background Checks?

Do Failed Drug Tests Show Up on Background Checks?

The answer depends on several factors, such as the type of background check conducted, the employer’s policies, and applicable state laws. Let’s explore some scenarios:

  1. Failed Drug Tests for Pre-Employment Screening:
    In most cases, if a candidate fails a pre-employment drug test, the result may not appear on a traditional background check report. Instead, the employer will typically rescind the job offer and keep the results confidential.
  2. Failed Drug Tests Reported to Background Check Agencies:
    When drug tests are performed by third-party screening providers, such as Exact Background Checks, the results may be included in a specific drug screening report if permitted by law and requested by the employer.
  3. DOT-Regulated Industries:
    For jobs regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT), such as commercial driving or aviation, failed drug tests are recorded in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. Employers are required to review this database during the hiring process.
  4. Legal Restrictions on Drug Test Reporting:
    Some states limit whether failed drug test results can be included in background checks. Employers must ensure compliance with state laws regarding disclosure and confidentiality.

Why Employers Conduct Drug Tests

Employers include drug testing in their hiring process for several reasons:

  1. Ensuring Workplace Safety: Employees under the influence of drugs or alcohol may pose risks to themselves, their colleagues, and the company.
  2. Compliance with Regulations: Certain industries, such as healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing, require drug-free policies to comply with federal and state laws.
  3. Protecting Company Reputation: A drug-free workforce projects professionalism and reliability to clients and stakeholders.
  4. Reducing Costs: Drug-related accidents and errors can result in significant financial losses, including liability claims and worker’s compensation.

Types of Drug Tests Commonly Used in Background Checks