Are police tested for drug use?

Most agencies do a pre-employment drug screen as part of the medical exam and/or background investigation. Once the officer is employed, whether he is subject to random or specific drug tests depends on the labor contract between the agency and officer, and possibly the laws in the state where the agency is sited. read more

Generally state and local police officer applicants are drug tested by a variety of means. Usually there is not random testing after hiring, depending in which state you are living. In California you can bet that a background investigation will include a drug use questionnaire. read more

Some police departments might only drug test employees once every two years, which leaves the institution at risk of drug abuse and accidents. The most commonly used drug tests ordered for officers are urine drug test cups and instant saliva test kits. read more

Unlike athletes, police officers are armed and deputized to use lethal force whenever they feel it is required to do their job safely. Unlike athletes, police also face a heavily armed society. Drug use — be it cocaine, marijuana, steroids, HGH or even alcohol — could seriously impact an officer's performance. read more