Drug testing is typically conducted during the initial MEPS processing appointment, but not necessarily during every visit to MEPS. The urinalysis drug test is part of the comprehensive medical examination that occurs during your primary processing for military enlistment.
The initial MEPS appointment includes a complete medical examination, physical fitness assessment, and drug screening as part of the enlistment qualification process. This mandatory drug test screens for controlled substances to ensure recruits meet military standards for service.
Subsequent visits to MEPS may not include drug testing unless specifically required due to circumstances such as medical re-evaluation, security clearance requirements, or if there are concerns about substance use that require verification.
The military maintains strict drug-free policies, and service members may be subject to random drug testing after enlistment during their military career, but this occurs through their military medical facilities rather than MEPS after initial processing.
If you fail the initial drug test at MEPS, you may be disqualified from military service, and the results could affect future enlistment eligibility depending on the substance and military branch policies.
Some circumstances may require retesting during the enlistment process if there are concerns about the initial sample or if additional verification is needed.
Success requires understanding that drug testing is a standard part of the MEPS process and maintaining drug-free status throughout the enlistment process and military service to meet military readiness and safety requirements.