Can My Probation Officer Violate Me for Drinking on Probation?
Complying with required drug tests is an essential part of getting through probation successfully. Since alcohol is not a controlled substance in the United States, you might wonder, “Does alcohol show up on a probation drug test? Can my probation officer violate me for drinking?”
Purpose Healing Center is versed in working with clients who are on probation in Arizona. We’re here to answer your questions.
This article will cover what you should know about whether probation drug tests detect alcohol, as well as how Purpose Healing Center can help you or your loved one avoid the potential risks of drinking while on probation.
Does Probation Test for Alcohol?
Usually, yes. The drug tests you get while on probation will almost always detect alcohol in addition to other drugs. You will need to get drug tests if you are on probation for a charge related to substances, such as driving under the influence (DUI) charge.
However, some people get tested even if what they were charged for doesn’t involve alcohol or drugs.
Court ordered drug testing and alcohol testing are used to help those on probation avoid repeat offenses and to ensure compliance with the terms of probation.
Frequency of Probation Drug Testing
Often, those on probation are subject to random drug testing about once per week or once per month, with the date determined based on the random color code system. Some people will have scheduled (as opposed to randomized) tests.
The frequency of your drug testing while on probation will depend on you, and it could change as time goes on. Regardless of your testing schedule, remember that your probation officer has the right to test you at any point in time. Failure to take or pass a drug test can come with serious consequences.
What Happens if I Fail an Alcohol Test on Probation?
You will almost certainly face consequences for drinking on probation, but those consequences can take different forms. Here are some of the most common potential outcomes of a positive alcohol test for those on probation.
- A probation violation hearing resulting in repercussions such as community service, fines, an extended probation period, or jail time.
- A probation violation warrant, which may lead to a warning or your arrest.
- Increased (more frequent) drug testing.
The severity of your consequences for drinking on probation may depend on several factors. Most notably, your adherence and actions throughout the course of probation so far are likely to make a difference in what repercussions you face for a positive drug test.
Types of Court-Ordered Drug Tests
- 5-Panel drug test
- 7-panel drug test
- 9 panel drug test
- 12-panel drug test
Where you live can also make a difference, as some courts and probation department systems also send samples for EtG lab testing, while others do not. In a complementary resource, we break down panel drug testing for alcohol in detail.
How are Drug Testing Dates Determined?
Often, court-ordered drug and alcohol testing uses a random color code system. This form of random testing monitoring system is to ensure an even distribution of testing, and means your color can be called at any time.
Meeting Probation Drug Testing Requirements
The best–and most certain–way to avoid a positive test result is to refrain from any form of alcohol or drug use while on probation. Drug and alcohol addiction treatment at Purpose Healing Center can help you stop using substances and stay sober.
That way, you can avoid the possible consequences of a failed drug test with the support of trained professionals.
We offer inpatient and outpatient rehab programs in Arizona. Our case managers are versed in helping clients who are on probation or who are facing other legal issues. Whether you’re in an inpatient or outpatient program with us, our team can work things out so that you can attend treatment while meeting with your probation officer as needed.
Why Addiction Treatment Matters
Addiction treatment can be deeply important for someone on probation for more than one reason. If you find it hard to stop drinking or use any other drugs, here are just some of the reasons to seek addiction treatment services.
- Probation requirements: For some, drug and alcohol rehab will be a probation requirement alongside regular drug testing. This is common for those who have engaged in a drug-related offense. Willingly entering substance abuse treatment is also a way to show personal responsibility and motivation.
- Help for underlying causes of substance abuse: Sometimes, it does not feel feasible to live your life without substances. There are a lot of underlying reasons as to why someone might use alcohol or drugs, like co-occurring mental health issues, trauma, and other risk factors. Our addiction treatment programs help individuals address the underlying causes of substance abuse.
Physical health and safety: Some people attempt to pass a test while on substances, even if through dangerous means. Getting treatment helps you avoid this risk. It can also prevent future health problems related to drug and alcohol use, such as organ damage, overdose, and death.
At Purpose Healing Center, we know firsthand that it is possible to recover. About 20.9 million (over 72%) of people who have or have had a substance abuse problem consider themselves in recovery or recovered.
Call Purpose Healing Center for Evidence-Based Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Arizona
Purpose Healing Center provides evidence-based treatment for substance abuse and mental health in Phoenix, AZ, and Scottsdale, AZ. Recovering from alcohol or drug abuse is about more than meeting probation requirements. We’re here to help you rebuild your life.
To learn more about how Purpose Healing Center can help you achieve long-term recovery from alcohol use, please call our admissions line today.
FAQs About Probation and Drug Testing
How do they test for alcohol when on probation?
Urine tests, breathalyzer (breath) tests, and blood tests are among the most common types of drug testing. Other tests, like sweat tests, are less likely to be used. Some people must complete hair follicle drug testing, which can detect alcohol and other drugs for a longer period of time than most other testing methods.
How long can hair tests detect alcohol?
A hair follicle test for drug and alcohol use can detect alcohol for around 3-6 months.
How long can alcohol be detected in a probation urine test?
Urine drug testing usually detects alcohol for 48 hours when an EtG test is used. However, if you are a heavy drinker, alcohol may be detectable in your urine sample for longer (72 hours or more).
Can people on parole drink alcohol?
Like probation, alcohol is typically not permitted for those on parole. Your parole officer will go over your personal parole guidelines with you.
What EtG level does probation use?
It depends. Often, a limit of 500 ng/ml is used for ethyl glucuronide (EtG) tests. While this is an extremely common cutoff, the number could be lower in some instances. Probation may use a lower cutoff to avoid under-detection of drinking.
What do parole officers test for?
Similar to probation drug testing, parole officers might use several types of drug tests. The substances detected in your test will depend on the type of drug test your parole officer uses.
Will I fail a drug test for drinking alcohol?
If you have consumed alcohol recently, you may fail a drug test. It is ideal to avoid anything that could lead to a false positive while you are on probation to avoid any possible issues.
Does a job drug test look for alcohol?
A drug test for your job might look for alcohol. A standard drug test for work will usually detect marijuana (THC), amphetamines, opiates, cocaine metabolites, and phencyclidine (PCP). Some tests might look for other drugs, too, like benzodiazepines and alcohol.
The type of drug test you complete for work could vary depending on factors like your line of work.
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