Drug Testing
in California

Drug Test FAQs

• How much does a drug test cost in California?

  Most drug tests cost between $25 and $100. When conducted at a doctors office in California you can expect to also add on an office visit charge or co-pay. At-home drug tests are also available and can cost less than $10, but are not as reliable. It really depends on what type of test you need. Check with your employer to see what their requirements are. They may even have a preferred lab or draw station they send you to.

• Where can I get a drug test in California?

  Drug tests are generally available throughout California at medical testing labs, urgent care centers, retail clinics, primary care doctor offices, and many local pharmacies. While walk-in appointments are typically available, booking a visit online will reduce your wait time and ensure you have your drug test results sooner. If your employer is requiring a drug test, consult with them first as they may have a designated place for you to get your drug test.

• How can I book a drug test in California?

  Regardless of the kind of drug test you are seeking, Solv can help you book an appointment. Simply search for labs and healthcare providers in your area, filter by the test you want and find a top-rated drug testing location. Be sure to include “drug testing” as the reason for visit.

• Where can I get a drug test after hours in California?

  Outside routine work hours, most testing labs and primary care offices in California are closed, however, most of the area’s urgent care and retail clinics are open later than typical business hours and on weekends. Book an after-hours visit to get prompt, no-hassle care and get your drug test results faster.

• Can I make a same-day appointment for drug testing in California?

  Same-day and next-day appointments for many drug tests can easily be booked directly through Solv. Simply search for labs and healthcare providers in California, find a testing lab or draw station, and book the most convenient time for you. Be sure to include “drug testing” as your reason for visit.

• How do I find the best labs for drug testing in California?

  Solv gathers ratings, reviews, and other data on labs and healthcare providers across the country to ensure the providers meet our high standards. Search for drug testing providers in California, see what previous patients think, and book an appointment with a top-rated lab or clinic today!

• Who should get a drug test?

  Many employers require pre-employment drug testing prior to being hired. Others may require periodic or random drug testing during your term of employment. Additionally, primary care doctors may order a drug test if they suspect you have a problem with drugs or alcohol, while emergency room doctors may request a drug test if you're confused or your behavior seems strange or dangerous while in the ER.

• How long do drug tests take?

  For most drug tests, you can be in and out of the testing center within 30 min. For results, however, it depends on what type of test you are getting done. Urine tests and blood tests could take 1-5 business days for results, while hair testing could take 4-10 business days. At-home drug testing, as well as some in-clinic tests may offer more rapid initial results, but the final conclusive results will take longer.

• Is drug testing covered by my insurance?

  If the drug test is a pre-employment requirement or required by your employer, your employer will cover the cost of the test and will usually send you to a specific lab or draw station to facilitate the test. Beyond that, drug tests are typically out of pocket, and therefore not covered by insurance. It is possible, depending on your plan, that you could submit the receipt to your insurance requesting reimbursement.

• Are home drug test kits accurate?

  No at-home drug test is 100% accurate. Many factors could alter the results of an at-home test resulting in a false positive or false negative result regardless of the person's actual drug abuse.

  For instance, it is possible to test for the wrong drugs. Timing of the collection could be off and the drugs had not yet shown up in the urine at the time the sample was collected. It is also possible that the chemicals in the at-home test went bad if they were stored incorrectly or they passed their expiration date.