What Drug Test Does the Military Use at MEPS?
The Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) is the first step in the enlistment process for those who want to join the military. During this process, potential recruits undergo a series of tests and evaluations to determine their eligibility for military service. One of the most important tests is the drug test, which is designed to detect the presence of illegal substances in the body. But what kind of drug test does the military use at MEPS?
The Military’s Drug Testing Policy
The military has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drug use. The Department of Defense (DoD) requires all military personnel to adhere to strict drug testing and use standards. The military drug testing program is designed to detect the presence of illegal substances, including drugs, in the body. The program is based on the principles of fairness, integrity, and consistency.
The Types of Drug Tests Used at MEPS
The military uses two types of drug tests at MEPS: the urine test and the hair test.
- Urine Test: The urine test is the most common type of drug test used at MEPS. It involves collecting a urine sample from the individual and then testing it for the presence of illegal substances. The urine test is designed to detect the presence of drugs in the body for a period of up to 72 hours.
- Hair Test: The hair test is a more comprehensive type of drug test that involves collecting a hair sample from the individual and then testing it for the presence of illegal substances. The hair test is designed to detect the presence of drugs in the body for a period of up to 90 days.
What Drugs Are Detected by the Military’s Drug Test?
The military’s drug test is designed to detect the presence of a wide range of illegal substances, including:
- Marijuana: THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, is detected by the military’s drug test.
- Cocaine: Cocaine and its metabolites are detected by the military’s drug test.
- Heroin: Heroin and its metabolites are detected by the military’s drug test.
- Amphetamines: Amphetamines, including methamphetamine, are detected by the military’s drug test.
- Opiates: Opiates, including codeine and morphine, are detected by the military’s drug test.
- Phencyclidine (PCP): PCP is detected by the military’s drug test.
- Hallucinogens: Hallucinogens, including LSD and psilocybin, are detected by the military’s drug test.
- Inhalants: Inhalants, including solvents and gases, are detected by the military’s drug test.
How the Military’s Drug Test Works
The military’s drug test involves several steps:
- Collection: A urine or hair sample is collected from the individual.
- Preparation: The sample is prepared for testing by adding a preservative to prevent contamination.
- Testing: The sample is then tested using a combination of techniques, including immunoassay and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).
- Confirmation: If the initial test is positive, a confirmatory test is performed to ensure the accuracy of the results.
What Happens if You Test Positive for Drugs at MEPS?
If you test positive for drugs at MEPS, it can have serious consequences for your military career. Here are some possible outcomes:
- Denial of Enlistment: If you test positive for drugs at MEPS, you will be denied enlistment in the military.
- Delayed Entry: If you test positive for drugs at MEPS, you may be granted a delayed entry into the military, but you will still be required to complete a drug rehabilitation program.
- Administrative Discharge: If you test positive for drugs while on active duty, you may be subject to administrative discharge from the military.
Conclusion
The military’s drug test at MEPS is designed to detect the presence of illegal substances in the body. The test is used to ensure that individuals who join the military are drug-free and meet the military’s high standards of conduct. If you are considering joining the military, it is important to understand the drug testing process and the consequences of testing positive for drugs.