Do Dollar General Drug Test in 2024? The Facts You Should Know
With over 18,000 stores and 160,000 employees nationwide, Dollar General is one of the largest retail chains in America today. As a major employer, many job seekers wonder – does Dollar General drug test?
Understanding Dollar General‘s drug screening policies can help you make an informed decision when applying for a position. Here‘s a detailed look at what to expect from the hiring process:
Why Do Retailers Like Dollar General Drug Test Employees?
According to surveys by HR.com, over half of US employers now perform pre-employment drug screening. This trend holds true in the retail sector – a study by Quest Diagnostics in 2019 found that:
- 53% of retail industry employers conduct pre-hire drug testing
- Retail has the 3rd highest random drug testing rate at 18%
| Industry | % Pre-hire Drug Testing | % Random Drug Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | 89% | 46% |
| Manufacturing | 70% | 28% |
| Retail | 53% | 18% |
There are several reasons major chains like Dollar General drug test both new hires and employees:
Safety – Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol on the job increases risks of workplace accidents and injuries. Retail involves operating equipment, driving, and other hazards.
Prevent theft/loss – Employees abusing drugs may be more inclined to steal merchandise, cash, or engage in fraudulent activities.
Comply with laws – Retailers must adhere to federal and state laws related to providing a drug-free workplace. Violations can lead to lawsuits or regulatory action.
Lower costs – Drug addictions drain productivity and hike absenteeism, health premiums, and workers compensation claims. Testing aims to control these expenses.
In my opinion, retail employers should ensure drug testing policies balance safety with worker privacy rights. While safety is critical, excessively stringent screening protocols beyond federal and state mandates can diminish recruitment and retention.
Who Does Dollar General Actually Test?
Dollar General maintains a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy. However, not all jobs get tested.
Pre-employment screening appears reserved for:
- Managerial positions like store managers
- Key holders
- Distribution center and warehouse workers
- Drivers
- Loss prevention or security roles
General store associates and cashiers are less likely to be tested upfront.
That said, Dollar General reserves the broad right to test any applicant or employee if deemed necessary. You can be asked to take a drug test for reasonable suspicion or following an accident. Promotions and transfers to high-risk jobs also often require testing.
In 2021, Dollar General screened around 46,000 applicants according to Drug Test Index data. Roughly 2.8% failed the drug test.
For existing employees, random drug testing does happen but is not common. Frontline retail staff face fewer periodic screens than warehouse workers, drivers, and loss prevention teams.
What Kind of Drug Test Does Dollar General Use?
Dollar General utilizes standard 5-panel urine drug tests at certified collection sites. This checks for:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Amphetamines
- Opioids
- PCP
Hair testing or extensive 10-panel urine screens are rare. In some states, breathalyzers may check for alcohol intoxication. Specimens are sealed with tamper-proof tape and shipped to accredited labs like Quest Diagnostics for analysis.
Passing a Dollar General Drug Test
To pass a Dollar General drug test:
Abstain from any substance use for as long as possible prior to the test – at minimum 1 week for casual marijuana use up to 90 days for heavy chronic use.
Avoid tampering techniques like substitute urine as labs often screen for adulterants. Tampering will lead to automatic failure.
I advise against trying to cheat drug tests as an ethical matter. Employees should disclose prescribed medications ahead of time to avoid false positives.
In legal marijuana states, exceptions may be made for off-duty cannabis use unless federal regulations apply to your job. Discuss this prior to a test.
What Happens If You Fail a Dollar General Test?
Failing a pre-employment drug test will eliminate you from hiring consideration for up to 1 year. Don‘t expect much leeway or second chances.
Current employees face immediate termination for a positive drug test. There is no rehab option as Dollar General maintains a zero-tolerance stance.
In my view, a failed test for legally prescribed medication or cannabis in legal states should not necessarily warrant dismissal if the usage does not impact on-the-job performance. But under present policies, Dollar General strictly enforces drug test failures.
The Bottom Line
While not universally required, drug tests are a common part of Dollar General‘s hiring process and employee policies. Understanding when and why the company tests can let applicants and staff make informed choices.
Pre-employment screening focuses on high-risk roles while random employee testing is limited. Nevertheless, Dollar General retains the right to test across all jobs. A failed drug test carries serious consequences, so caution is warranted.
