Had A Beer 3 Days Before Pre Employment Test

Hey all, new memebr here. Great site.

A little about myself. I'm a 26 year driving veteran. I've applied and was accepted to attend a carriers orientation that will start next Wednesday. Last night (Saturday) my family and I went out for dinner and after dinner, I enjoyed a single glass of whiskey. Probably about 1.5 oz. I'm not a drinker, it's probably the first alcohol I've had in 6 months.

After I got home, I got a little paranoid about the drink and how it would affect my alcohol test results on Wednesday. After much research I've found that it depends on the type of testing but worst case for urine could show up to 80 hours after the drink. (Provided the company performs that specific test and not simply a breathalyzer)

I did the math and I had exactly 80 hours from the time I took that drink until the time I walk into orientation on day 1.

I know I tend to worry too much and Google is not a friend in times like these so Im hoping to get some positive feedback from the fine folks here. After all, I did quit a job for this new opportunity and I have a family to support. I'd hate to loe my ability to provide for my family because of 1 after dinner drink.

Do companies generally rely on breathalyzer? Or do they do the more sensitive urine test that goes back up to 80 hours?

Thanks!

I wouldn’t be worried. Alcohol metabolizes at 1 “drink” an hour. So theoretically you would pass a breathalyzer after an hour or so after drinking one drink, depending on body weight. If you worried just drink a bunch of water.

The alcohol will be long gone from your system at the time table you mention. They are looking for drugs specifically. Breathalyer I have never heard if them using. Maybe it has happened somewhere but as long as you don’t walk in smelling of alchol I don’t forsee you having an issue

You should have no fears. They are going to take a urine specimen from you, but typically it is not an alcohol test. It is for drugs. I have been randomly tested for alcohol by swabbing the inside of my mouth and with a breathalyzer. I have never been tested for alcohol at an orientation. I think you will be perfectly fine.

You are worrying too much. I had a beer or two with my dinner on a couple occasions, while attending orientation for my current employer. Unless you are going nuts and downing a case the night before, to the point that the smell of alcohol is lingering the following day, then you will be fine.

Of course all companies are different but it seems the general consensus is that there is no alcohol test unless you give them a reason to test you.