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FAA Drug Testing: What Aviation Professionals Need to Know

FAA Drug Testing: What Aviation Professionals Need to Know

When safety takes to the skies, drug and alcohol testing becomes more than a policy, it’s a federal requirement. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has strict regulations in place to ensure that everyone in safety-sensitive roles within aviation is fit for duty. Whether you're an airline operator, mechanic, dispatcher, or pilot, FAA drug testing isn’t optional—it’s essential.

At US Drug Test Centers, we help aviation employers and individuals stay fully compliant with FAA testing regulations through streamlined testing programs, nationwide collection sites, and expert support.

Who Is Subject to FAA Drug Testing?

The FAA requires drug and alcohol testing for employees performing safety-sensitive functions as defined in 14 CFR Part 120. This includes:

Pilots (Part 121, 135, and 91 Subpart K)
Flight attendants
Aircraft dispatchers
Aircraft mechanics and maintenance personnel
Flight instructors
Ground security coordinators
Aviation screeners
Air traffic control tower operators not employed by the FAA

If you are performing (or directly supervising) any of these duties for an FAA-regulated employer, you're covered by the FAA’s drug and alcohol testing program.

When Does FAA Drug Testing Occur?

FAA drug and alcohol testing isn’t a one-time requirement—it’s an ongoing compliance program. Here's when testing is required:

Pre-Employment

All individuals must pass a drug test before performing any safety-sensitive function. Employers must receive a verified negative result.

Random Testing

Employees are subject to unannounced, random drug and alcohol tests throughout the year. Random selection must be scientifically valid and compliant with federal guidelines.

Drug Testing Rate (2024–2025): 25% annually
Alcohol Testing Rate: 10% annually

Post-Accident

Drug and/or alcohol tests must be conducted as soon as possible following certain aviation accidents or incidents.

Reasonable Suspicion

Supervisors trained to recognize signs of drug or alcohol use should order a test if they observe behaviors or symptoms consistent with substance use.

Return-to-Duty

After a violation, employees must complete a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) process and pass a return-to-duty test before resuming safety-sensitive functions.

Follow-Up Testing

After returning to duty, employees are subject to directly observed follow-up testing, typically spread over 12–60 months as outlined by the SAP.

What Substances Are Tested?

FAA drug testing follows the DOT’s 49 CFR Part 40 procedures and includes screening for:

Marijuana (THC)
Cocaine
Amphetamines (including MDMA and MDA)
Opioids (Codeine, Morphine, Heroin, 6-AM, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxycodone, and oxymorphone)
Phencyclidine (PCP)

Alcohol testing is also performed using evidential breath testing (EBT) equipment and must be conducted by trained Breath Alcohol Technicians (BATs).

What Happens If You Fail a Drug or Alcohol Test?

Failing or refusing a test leads to immediate removal from safety-sensitive duties. To return to work, the individual must:

Complete an evaluation by a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)
Follow the SAP’s recommendations, which will include treatment and/or education
Pass a Return-to-Duty test under direct observation
Complete follow-up testing, which can last up to 5 years; also under direct observation

These requirements are non-negotiable and federally mandated.

Employer Responsibilities

If you’re an aviation employer or contractor, FAA compliance is not optional. You are required to:

Maintain a DOT-compliant drug and alcohol testing program including a written policy
Provide employee education and supervisor training
Ensure accurate recordkeeping and reporting
Conduct all required types of testing
Coordinate with MROs (Medical Review Officers) and SAPs
Submit annual MIS reports to the FAA upon request

Non-compliance can result in fines, audits, grounding of aircraft, or even loss of FAA certification.

How US Drug Test Centers Can Help

Managing FAA compliance can be complex, but we simplify it. US Drug Test Centers offers turnkey solutions for both individuals and aviation employers:

For Employers:

Complete FAA Drug & Alcohol Testing Programs
Access to 10,000+ testing locations nationwide
Random testing management
Supervisor training for reasonable suspicion
Fast results and electronic reporting
MRO, SAP, and DER support
Program setup and ongoing compliance consultation
Assistance with FAA audits of your drug and alcohol testing program

For Individuals:

FAA-compliant pre-employment drug testing
Return-to-duty and follow-up testing support
Secure, fast scheduling at nearby collection sites
Access to qualified SAP referrals

Whether you're a major airline, small charter operator or aircraft maintenance facility—we ensure your testing program meets all federal standards and keeps you audit-ready.

Learn more: FAA Drug Testing Services

Common Questions About FAA Drug Testing

Is cannabis use allowed if it’s legal in my state?

No. Despite state laws, cannabis (THC) remains prohibited under DOT/FAA drug testing regulations. Even off-duty use can result in a failed test and disciplinary action. Caution is also advised for use of CBD products which may contain more THC than displayed on labeling.

Are FAA drug tests observed?

Only return-to-duty and follow-up tests are required to be directly observed. All other tests are collected under standard procedures unless there is a concern for tampering.

How long does it take to get results?

Negative results are usually available within one to two days. Positive results are reviewed by an MRO, which may extend the reporting time.

What if I refuse a test?

A refusal is treated the same as a positive result and requires completion of the SAP process before returning to work.

Conclusion

Aviation safety depends on vigilance, professionalism, and compliance—and that includes strict adherence to FAA drug and alcohol testing regulations. Whether you're a pilot, mechanic, or aviation employer, understanding and meeting these standards is critical.

At US Drug Test Centers, we make FAA compliance seamless, fast, and reliable. From program design to individual testing, we’ve helped thousands of aviation professionals stay cleared for takeoff.