Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
Yes, UPS drug tests as a prerequisite for some positions. The requirement for drug tests seems to vary by both location and position. Drug tests do not appear to be required for any corporate or administrative positions.
Although drug tests are not always required, UPS reserves the right to perform random drug screenings during employment, particularly if a workplace accident occurs or substance use is suspected.
In addition to drug test screenings, drivers can expect to be given a physical test by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Yes and no. Given that UPS is a delivery service, you might expect drug tests to be more common. However, they’re actually pretty rare or circumstantial.
UPS doesn’t have a strict policy on drug tests, as the testing done varies greatly from position to position.
For UPS, the amount of drug testing done is mainly based on the position.
For example, full-time delivery drivers may be required to receive a pre-employment drug screen, DOT physical drug test, and potentially random tests as well. While, on the other hand, part-time and temporary employees aren’t required to take a drug test.
Though, both types of employees would need to take a drug test if they intended to file Workman’s Compensation. This is because UPS wants to ensure that drugs aren’t the reason for the request. After all, if accepted, the company will give the employee benefits because they received a work-related injury or illness.
With that in mind, if the employee became injured while high or intoxicated, UPS will have the right to refuse compensation.
Additionally, both types of employees may be tested if a manager or supervisor has cause for reasonable suspicion, especially if an employee seems under the influence while working.
With all that in mind, it’s especially important for full-time UPS employees to be prepared for drug tests, while part-time and seasonal employees may never have to take one.
Typically, UPS will employ the use of a urine test if drug testing is required. Knowing that urine tests will uncover things like:
Methamphetamines (meth, speed, ecstasy)
THC (cannabinoids, marijuana)
Alcohol
Cocaine
Opiates (heroin, opium, morphine)
Phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust)
However, it’s important to note that your perceptions can play a role in drug testing. If you’ve been prescribed opioids or medical marijuana, you should be sure to relay this information to your manager. If UPS has no reason to suspect that you’re using it on the job, they will not care that you’re taking these prescriptions.
However, if you apply for Workman’s Comp, even the presence of prescription drugs can prevent you from receiving compensation.
UPS has a somewhat inconsistent approach to drug testing. While many employees report never having to take one, there are others that outline various drug testing policies at the company as evidence of routine drug testing for full-time employees.
For the most part, though, unless you’re filing for Workman’s Comp or under reasonable suspicion, you likely don’t have to worry about a drug test at UPS.