How to Successfully Pass a Drug Test at MEPS in 2024

Daniel Miller
By Daniel Miller

Ph.D Pharmacology, Drug Testing Specialist

Updated: 2024 Nov 29

In this article, I’ll provide you with a comprehensive and detailed guide on how to pass a military drug test with confidence.

This guide includes step-by-step instructions and explores all available options to help you navigate through this process.

Additionally, I’ll walk you through the complete drug testing procedure, so you’ll know exactly what to expect at each step.

I’ll also discuss how to address a positive drug test result in the military context.

The information presented here is based on official documents and the shared experiences of numerous individuals.

To begin, let’s delve into the specifics of the army drug test and its procedure, giving you a clear understanding of what to expect and the actions you can take.

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What kind of drug test does the army use?

The U.S. Army primarily employs urine drug tests.

During this process, your urine will be collected and analyzed for traces of drugs, specifically drug metabolites.

If the concentration of these metabolites exceeds a certain threshold, the test is considered failed. This threshold is known as the cutoff level, and it varies depending on the specific drug being tested for.

Essentially, if the amount of drug metabolites in your urine is below this cutoff level, it won’t be detected in the drug test.

How does the drug test work to detect drugs?

The army uses a type of test known as an immunoassay drug test, often referred to as a panel drug test.

This test incorporates chemical markers that respond to the presence of drug metabolites. When your urine is tested, these markers will indicate a negative result with two lines and a positive result with one line.

how to pass a military drug test - read a drug test results

It’s important to note that even a faint second line is interpreted as a negative drug test.

Thus, if you have used drugs, the key is to ensure that the concentration of drug metabolites in your system is below the cutoff level.

What drugs do they test for

Drug / Metabolite Confirmation Cutoff (ng/mL)
Marijuana Metabolite (THC) 15
Cocaine Metabolite (BZE) 100
Opioids:
Morphine (MOR) 4000
Codeine (COD) 2000
Oxycodone (OXCOD) 100
Oxymorphone (OXMOR) 100
Hydrocodone (HYDC) 100
Hydromorphone (HYDM) 100
Heroin Metabolite (6AM) 10
Fentanyl (FENT) 1
Norfentanyl (NFENT) 1
Amphetamines:
d-Amphetamine (DAMP) 100
d-Methamphetamine (DMETH) 100
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) 500
Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) 500
Benzodiazepines:
Alpha-hydroxyalprazolam (AHAL) 100
Lorazepam (LORA) 100
Nordiazepam (NORD) 100
Oxazepam (OXAZ) 100
Temazepam (TEMA) 100
Synthetic Cannabinoids:
JWH-018 (SYCAN) 1
JWH-073 (SYCAN) 1
UR144 (SYCAN) 1
MAM-2201 (SYCAN) 1
AB CHIMINACA (SYCAN) 1
AB PINACA (SYCAN) 1

How long can drugs be detected?

When it comes to drug detection in the body, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

The time drugs can be detected in your system varies depending on several factors. These include your metabolism, how often you use drugs, and the amount you use.

Here’s a general guideline on drug detection times:

Drug Detection Time (days)
Marijuana Metabolite (THC) 48
Cocaine Metabolite (BZE) 2
Morphine (MOR) 2
Codeine (COD) 1
Oxycodone (OXCOD) 2
Oxymorphone (OXMOR) 2
Hydrocodone (HYDC) 2
Hydromorphone (HYDM) 2
Heroin Metabolite (6AM) 2
Fentanyl (FENT) 3
Norfentanyl (NFENT) 3
d-Amphetamine (DAMP) 2
d-Methamphetamine (DMETH) 3
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) 2
Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) 2
Alpha-hydroxyalprazolam (AHAL) 2
Lorazepam (LORA) 2
Nordiazepam (NORD) 2
Oxazepam (OXAZ) 2
Temazepam (TEMA) 2
JWH-018 (SYCAN) 3
JWH-073 (SYCAN) 3
UR144 (SYCAN) 3
MAM-2201 (SYCAN) 3
AB CHIMINACA (SYCAN) 3
AB PINACA (SYCAN) 3

Remember, these are just general estimates.

The actual time drugs can be detected in your system can vary greatly depending on your personal habits and body chemistry.

Does CBD oil show up on a drug test in the military?

Generally, CBD itself isn’t what drug tests are looking for.

However, the catch is that many CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the psychoactive component in cannabis that drug tests typically screen for.

Even products labeled as “THC-free” can sometimes contain THC. It’s not uncommon for companies to market their products as 100% CBD, but in reality, they might still have THC in them.

Drug tests in the military look for the metabolites of THC, not CBD.

So, yes, using CBD products could potentially lead to a positive drug test result for THC in the military.

Does delta-8 THC show up on a military drug test?

Now, regarding Delta-8 THC, the answer is yes, it can show up on a military drug test.

Delta-8 THC is chemically similar to Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. Because of their structural similarities, Delta-8 THC produces metabolites that are similar to those produced by Delta-9 THC.

These metabolites are what drug tests detect.

So, if you use products containing Delta-8 THC, be aware that they can result in a positive drug test in the military.

Understanding the military drug testing procedure

It’s crucial to understand the military drug testing procedure, as it can help you know what to expect and what methods might be effective for passing. Let’s break down the process step by step:

Sample Collection: The drug test begins with the collection of a urine sample at MEPS.

This is a supervised process where someone of your gender will observe you providing the sample. This is to ensure the sample is genuinely yours and has not been tampered with.

A minimum of 30 mL of urine is collected under direct observation.

Handling the Sample: After collection, the urine sample is carefully labeled and sealed. This step is crucial to prevent any mix-up or contamination of the sample.

Transportation: The sealed sample is then transported to a laboratory for testing. It’s essential that the sample remains in the same condition as when it was collected, ensuring accurate testing.

Testing at the Lab: At the laboratory, the first test conducted is a general screening. This quick check, typically using a panel drug test, looks for any indications of drugs in the sample.

Confirmation Test: If the initial screening suggests the presence of drugs, a second, more detailed test is conducted.

This confirmatory test is more precise and determines whether drugs are indeed present in the sample. Usually, this involves sophisticated methods like chromatography and mass spectrometry.

Reviewing Results: Experts then review the test results for accuracy, ensuring that the testing process was carried out correctly.

Positive results undergo a medical review to rule out the presence of prescribed medications. Valid prescriptions are not subject to punishment.

Reporting Results: After the completion of tests and reviews, the results are reported. This report will confirm whether drugs were detected in the urine sample.

The results are recorded in a secure database, with negative results typically reported within four days and positive results within six days.

Keeping Records: Finally, records and information about the testing process are maintained. Laboratories keep positive specimens and related records for a minimum of one to three years.

By understanding this procedure, you can better prepare for a military drug test and know what to expect at each step of the process.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to encourage or endorse cheating on drug tests. Always obey the laws and regulations, and remember that your actions are your responsibility.

How to pass a military drug test

When it comes to passing a military drug test, it’s crucial to understand that cheating is not a viable option.

It’s impossible to use fake or synthetic urine, as the testing process includes direct observation.

You might have heard of devices like the Whizzinator, which includes a fake penis, but these methods are ineffective.

During the drug test, you are required to lower your pants and turn around, making it impossible to use any such devices without being noticed.

Therefore, I strongly advise against attempting to use them.

Similarly, using urine additives or other substances to alter the test results is not feasible during a directly observed drug test.

I’ll focus on methods for passing a military drug test after marijuana use, as other drugs typically remain detectable for only a few days.

If you’re using drugs within two days of a drug test, that’s a serious mistake, and frankly, the military might not be the place for you.

However, marijuana is different. Its metabolites are fat-soluble and get trapped in body fat cells, continuously releasing into the blood.

This means that even if you used marijuana weeks ago, it could still be detected in a drug test, especially with the military’s low cutoff level of 15ng/ml.

There are two legal methods to pass a drug test in the military: detoxification and cleansing. Neither of these methods is considered cheating.

  • Detoxification: This is the body’s natural process of removing marijuana metabolites. It’s a permanent method but takes time. Since marijuana metabolites are stored in body fat, their release can be a slow process. However, you can speed up this process through certain steps, which I’ll discuss.
  • Cleansing: This is a same-day method that temporarily cleanses your urine, providing a roughly 5-hour window in which your urine is clear of drug metabolites. The results are temporary, but this method works quickly, in about an hour, making it a viable option if you’re short on time.

Remember, the best way to pass a drug test is to not use drugs.

These methods are for those who have used marijuana and need to ensure they pass a military drug test. Stay informed and make responsible choices.

How to pass a military drug test with permanent detoxification

If you’re interested in understanding the principles behind natural detoxification, I’ve got a detailed guide on it Dr. Daniel Miller’s Expert Approach to Weed Detox.

The basics of detoxification involve improving liver metabolism, speeding up the burning of body fat, and preventing the reabsorption of drug metabolites.

This is a permanent solution that removes all weed metabolites (THC) from your body, cleansing your urine, blood, and saliva.

It usually requires at least 7 days but can be accelerated significantly with special THC detox kits.

However, remember that THC will still be present in your hair, and you’ll need to use a detox shampoo to remove it.

Here’s what you need to do:

Follow a healthy diet

Eating healthily assists your body in using body fat for energy, releasing stored THC into the blood for excretion.

There’s a wealth of information about healthy diets online. Here are some general recommendations, along with links to detailed information:

Exercise

Exercise helps you spend more calories daily.

When you burn more calories than you consume, your body starts using body fat for energy, releasing THC into the blood for excretion.

Here’s what you can do:

  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily.
  • This can be light intensity exercises like jogging or running.
  • Even walking for 30 minutes a day is beneficial.
  • Examples of exercises include jogging, running, swimming laps, biking fast or on hills, playing singles tennis or basketball, and lifting weights.

Drink more water

Water aids in burning more calories and suppressing your appetite, which helps burn body fat. It also boosts metabolism and makes exercise easier and more efficient.

Studies suggest that 1-2 liters of water per day can assist with weight loss, especially when consumed before meals.

However, be careful not to drink excessively, as this can lead to water toxicity, which in extreme cases, like water drinking contests, has been fatal.

Sleep more

Research has shown that not getting enough sleep is linked to weight gain and a higher chance of obesity in both adults and kids.

Adequate sleep may help prevent the increase in calorie intake and appetite often seen in those who are sleep-deprived.

Also, getting enough sleep can prevent the slowdown in metabolism that can occur with insufficient sleep.

Ensuring you get enough sleep is vital for losing weight and aiding in the release of THC from fat cells.

Most adults should aim for about 7 – 9 hours of sleep per night.

Supplements for THC Detoxification

In this section, I’ll talk about supplements that can help speed up the natural detoxification process of THC.

Activated Charcoal

Research indicates that activated charcoal can absorb drugs in the intestines, preventing their reabsorption into the bloodstream.

This means THC gets excreted with feces instead of re-entering the blood.

The recommended dosage is 1200mg taken twice daily, ideally 2-3 hours before or after meals, or as advised by a healthcare professional.

Fiber

Fiber works similarly to activated charcoal by absorbing THC in the intestines and speeding up its removal from the body.

Consuming foods high in fiber can help in the faster elimination of THC.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar, particularly apple cider vinegar, has been shown to help burn body fat.

A study in Japan examined its effect on body fat in obese individuals.

The study concluded that regular vinegar intake might aid in reducing body fat and preventing obesity-related diseases, like diabetes and heart disease.

The suggested way to use it is 15ml of apple cider vinegar twice daily, mixed with a large amount of water.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is known to induce CYP3A4 enzymes, which are responsible for processing THC in the liver. By inducing these enzymes, the speed of THC metabolism is increased.

The recommended way to use it is to take 300mg daily with food.

Remember, these supplements are meant to support the natural detoxification process and should be used responsibly and in accordance with health guidelines.

How to pass a military drug test with cleansing

For those interested in a more detailed explanation of how this method affects metabolism and helps in passing a drug test, I’ve written an extensive guide, which you can find https://www.norcs.org/pass-a-drug-test-guide/.

Cleansing, also known as same-day detox or flushing, functions differently from long-term detoxification.

This method flushes marijuana metabolites from your bladder and prevents new metabolites from entering the urine, leaving it clean of drug traces.

However, it’s important to note that this effect is temporary and typically lasts for up to 5 hours.

What to do

  • Four Hours Before the Test: Begin by taking 5g of activated charcoal. This will absorb THC in the intestines.
  • Three Hours Before the Test: Mix 10 grams of creatine supplement with a glass of grapefruit juice and drink it. The creatine helps to restore creatinine levels in the urine, while grapefruit juice slows down the metabolism of THC in the liver.
  • During the Three Hours Before the Test: Drink 25oz of an electrolyte drink, such as Gatorade, every hour.
  • Two Hours Before the Test: Take a vitamin B supplement and eat a chocolate bar or sweets. Vitamin B will help restore the natural color of your urine, and the chocolate bar helps to stop the breakdown of body fat.

Important tips

  • Consider using creatine ethyl ester, as it works faster.
  • Practice this method at home first to determine your personal creatine dosage and timing.
  • Use at-home urine test strips to ensure your creatinine level is within the normal range.

Best products to pass a military drug test

While I’ve provided detailed guides on each method, it can sometimes be more convenient to use products specifically designed for permanent detoxification or cleansing.

These products are balanced with all the necessary ingredients and can significantly aid in passing a drug test.

I’ve selected products that have been proven to work effectively.

Fast Marijuana Detox Kit by GreenFleets – Best same-day cleansing solution

fast marijuana detox kit

Fast Marijuana Detox Kit is designed to work within 60 minutes, which means it can potentially help you pass a drug test shortly after use. The effects of the kit are said to last for about 5 hours, giving you a window during which you can take your test.

It’s important to note that this detox kit is reportedly undetectable by standard drug tests. This means that labs shouldn’t be able to tell you’ve used the kit.

Additionally, using this product isn’t considered cheating on a drug test, as it’s legal.

The kit is designed to be effective regardless of your body mass or how frequently you use marijuana.

For those who need the kit quickly, orders placed before 2 pm are shipped the same day, and there’s an option for overnight delivery, ensuring you can receive your kit by the next day.

The kit comes with easy-to-follow instructions, aiming to make the detox process as straightforward as possible.

Additionally, it includes a Healthy Detox Guide, valued at $60, at no extra cost.

This guide might be helpful for those looking to understand more about detoxification and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

ToxinRid 10-Day Detox Kit – Best for permanent detox, especially for heavy users

toxin rid 10 day detox kit

ToxinRid 10-Day Detox Kit, aimed at heavy and frequent users, comprises 150 toxin rid pills, 1 ounce of dietary fiber, and 1 fluid ounce of detox liquid.

It comes with straightforward instructions and has garnered many positive reviews. I

t is available for $189.95, and the manufacturer assures its effectiveness when utilized according to the provided directions.

Premium 7-Day Detox Kit by GreenFleets – ideal for light users

premium 7 day detox kit

The Premium 7-Day Detox Kit by GreenFleets is tailored for individuals who are light users and seeking a permanent solution to remove marijuana and other toxins.

This kit is made in the USA and is designed to cleanse not just urine, but also blood and saliva.

It’s a legal and lab-undetectable method, ensuring safety for your health.

Along with the detox kit, you’ll receive a Healthy Detox Guide and a meal plan, complete with detailed, step-by-step instructions.

The kit is reasonably priced at $66.98 and can be delivered overnight for your convenience.

Consequences of failing a drug test in the military

Failing a drug test in the military is a serious matter with significant consequences.

If you’re a prospective service member who fails a drug test at the Military Entry Processing Station (MEPS), you might have the chance to retake it after 90 days.

However, be aware that a second failed test will bar you from serving in any branch of the military.

For active-duty service members or reservists, the situation is more stringent.

There is no opportunity to retake a drug test.

A positive result typically leads to the assumption of knowing use of an illegal substance. The type of drug detected can influence the disciplinary actions taken by the military.

Moreover, service members often do not receive military defense counsel or a Judge Advocate early in the process, which can be disadvantageous.

The overall impact of a positive drug test in the military can be profound.

It can lead to separation from service and an unfavorable discharge characterization. Such a discharge can have lasting effects, including the loss of benefits and diminished opportunities for gainful employment.

It’s important to recognize the gravity of these outcomes and make informed decisions.

Understanding the consequences can guide you in making choices that avoid these potential pitfalls.

How to respond to a failed military drug test

A failed drug test in the military isn’t necessarily the end of the road. Despite the well-known “zero tolerance” policy, this often refers to mandatory processing rather than automatic separation. There are several ways to challenge a positive drug test result.

The sample collection, handling, and testing processes are intricate and scientific.

Sometimes, errors occur, like mislabeling or mishandling, which can compromise the test’s integrity.

Additionally, issues with the testing lab itself are not unheard of; there have been instances where labs were closed due to repeated false positives.

Another defense is proving unintentional ingestion of the substance.

With the increasing availability of products like gummies or vape pens, especially in states where marijuana is legal or decriminalized, accidental consumption can occur.

These products, particularly those not FDA-approved, may contain marijuana or THC.

It’s then up to the government to prove that the service member knowingly ingested an illegal substance.

What to do if you fail an on-duty drug test in the military

  1. Initial Reaction: First and foremost, stay calm. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, but it’s important to keep a clear head.
  2. Possible Random Selection: Remember that not all samples are tested due to random selection processes. However, this shouldn’t be relied upon.
  3. Honesty and Caution: If you’re certain of a failure, honesty may be beneficial, but exercise caution. The reaction from superiors can vary widely.
  4. Facing Consequences: Upon notification of a failed test, you’ll likely meet with superiors. Responses can range from counseling to more severe actions, depending on the situation.
  5. Enrolling in Rehab: Proactively enrolling in a Substance Use Disorder Clinical Care program can be a wise move.
  6. Active Participation in Rehab: Fully engage in therapy sessions, as active participation can positively influence your situation.
  7. Medical Clearances: Be prepared for medical clearances, which may affect your participation in activities like physical training.
  8. Punishment Phase: Higher command will decide on your punishment, which could vary greatly in severity.
  9. Preparing for Aftermath: Start preparing for potential outcomes, such as reduced pay or additional duties.
  10. Final Decision: The final decision regarding your military career will be made by higher authorities, with possible outcomes ranging from retention under conditions to separation.
  11. Separation Process: If separated, begin the transition back to civilian life, including collecting medical records and completing transition programs.
  12. Reflection and Moving Forward: Use this experience as a learning opportunity, focusing on personal growth regardless of your future in the military or as a civilian.

Conclusion

By following the healthy detoxification steps outlined in this article, you can confidently approach a military drug test.

If you need assistance, the Fast Marijuana Detox Kit is a reliable same-day solution, while the Toxin Rid Detox Kits are excellent for more permanent detoxification.

Remember, preparation and informed choices are key to successfully navigating these challenges.