Where to get tested for alcohol and drug screening
Testing for alcohol and drug use related to your driver license happens at specific facilities, not at the DMV itself. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles will direct you to approved testing centers, usually after a DUI arrest, a failed roadside test, or as a condition of license reinstatement. The testing center you use must be licensed by your state — not all labs or clinics can perform this work.
Start by contacting your state DMV or the court handling your case, because they maintain the official list of approved providers in your area. If you were arrested, your attorney or the court paperwork will often name specific centers you must use. If you're searching on your own, search "[your state] approved alcohol and drug testing centers" or "[your state] SADTAP providers" — SADTAP stands for Substance Abuse and Driving Testing Assessment Program, the framework many states use.
Testing centers are usually independent medical labs, hospital outpatient departments, or specialized substance abuse clinics. They are not affiliated with the DMV, though they report results directly to the state. You pay the testing fee out of pocket — costs vary by state and test type, typically ranging from $50 to $300 per test.
Key Takeaways
- Your state DMV or the court will provide a list of approved testing centers; do not use an unapproved lab, as results may not be accepted.
- Testing is ordered after a DUI arrest, failed breath test, or as part of license reinstatement conditions — it is not something you request on your own.
- You must pay for testing yourself, and costs vary by state and facility, usually between $50 and $300 per test.
- Results are reported directly to your state DMV or the court, not to you, so the testing center will tell you where to obtain your own copy.
How to find an approved testing center near you
The fastest way is to call your state DMV directly and ask for the list of approved alcohol and drug testing providers in your county or region. Have your case number or driver license number ready. The DMV staff can tell you which centers are currently accepting new clients and may give you phone numbers on the spot.
If you were arrested or cited, check any paperwork you received — court summons, bail conditions, or a notice from the DMV often lists approved providers or tells you how to find them. Your criminal defense attorney, if you have one, will also know which centers the court uses and may recommend one based on location or reputation.
Online, search your state's DMV website for "approved testing providers" or "substance abuse testing." Some states maintain a searchable database by county; others post a PDF list. If your state does not have an online list, call the DMV's main number and ask to be transferred to the licensing or substance abuse testing division.
What to bring and what to expect at your appointment
Bring a valid photo ID and proof of your case number or court order. If you were ordered to test by a court, bring a copy of that order — the testing center will need to verify you are authorized to be tested and what type of test is required. Some centers also ask for insurance information, though many do not bill insurance for these tests.
The appointment itself usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. For an alcohol test, you may be asked to provide a breath sample (breathalyzer), a blood sample, or a urine sample, depending on what the court ordered. For a drug test, urine is most common, though blood or hair tests are sometimes ordered. The testing center will explain the process before you begin.
You will be asked to sign consent forms and may be observed during collection to prevent tampering. After the test, ask the center how and when you will receive your results and whether you need to pick up a copy or if it will be mailed to you. Results are typically available within three to seven business days.
Understanding different types of tests
A breath test (breathalyzer) measures blood alcohol content through your breath and takes only a few minutes. It is the most common roadside test and is often repeated at a testing center if you failed the initial screening. Breath tests are less invasive but can be affected by certain medical conditions or medications.
A urine test detects drugs and alcohol metabolites — the byproducts your body creates after consuming alcohol or drugs. Urine tests can show drug use from several days to weeks prior, depending on the substance. They are cheaper than blood tests and are the standard for most drug screening programs.
A blood test is the most accurate measure of current alcohol or drug levels in your system. Blood tests are ordered when a breath test is inconclusive, when you refuse a breath test, or when the court wants precise measurement. They cost more than breath or urine tests and require a trained phlebotomist to draw blood.
A hair test can detect drug use over a longer period — typically 90 days — and is sometimes ordered if you have a history of drug use or if the court suspects you are using drugs regularly. Hair tests are less common for driver license cases but may be part of a comprehensive assessment.
What happens after you test
Results are sent directly to your state DMV and to the court or agency that ordered the test. You do not automatically receive a copy, so contact the testing center after the results are ready and ask how to obtain yours. Some centers mail results; others require you to pick them up in person or read them from a patient portal.
If the test is negative (no alcohol or drugs detected), the result satisfies the court or DMV requirement, and you can move forward with license reinstatement or other next steps. If the test is positive, the result becomes part of your case file and may be used in court proceedings or to determine what additional treatment or testing is required.
Keep a copy of your test results for your records. You may need to show them to your attorney, the court, your employer, or your insurance company. Some states require you to pass multiple tests over time, so ask the testing center or your attorney whether you need to schedule follow-up appointments.
If you cannot find a testing center nearby
If you live in a rural area or a small town with no approved testing centers, contact your state DMV and explain the situation. Some states allow you to test at a center in a neighboring county or will approve an out-of-state facility if you live near a state border. The DMV can also tell you whether any mobile testing services operate in your region.
If you were ordered to test by a court, your attorney can file a motion asking the court to approve an alternative testing center or to extend your important date. Courts understand that transportation and access are real barriers and may grant reasonable accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose which testing center I use?
Usually no — the court or DMV will direct you to an approved center or give you a list to choose from. You cannot use a private lab or clinic that is not on your state's approved list, even if it is closer or cheaper, because the results will not be accepted.
What if I fail the test?
A failed test does not automatically result in license suspension or criminal charges, but it becomes evidence in your case. Your next steps depend on the court's orders — you may be required to complete substance abuse treatment, attend counseling, or take additional tests. Speak with your attorney about what a failed result means for your specific situation.
Do I have to pay for the test myself?
Yes, in almost all cases. Testing fees are your responsibility, not the state's or the court's. Costs vary by state and facility. If you cannot afford the test, ask the testing center whether they offer a payment plan or sliding scale fee based on income.
How long does it take to get results?
Most testing centers return results within three to seven business days. Some labs are faster, especially for breath tests, which can be available within 24 hours. Ask the testing center for their specific timeline when you schedule your appointment.
Will my employer or insurance company find out about the test?
Test results are confidential and are not automatically shared with your employer or insurance company. However, if you are required to disclose the test as part of a professional license renewal or employment condition, you may need to provide results yourself. Your attorney can advise you on what you are legally required to disclose.