LabInformationLab tests, explained

Hair Drugs Tests in California

Hair Drugs Tests is a laboratory test you can order directly. A hair drug test detects certain drugs or their breakdown products that have been deposited in hair over time. It is typically ordered to check for recent or past drug use, often in workplace, legal, or clinical settings. This page covers the hair drugs tests for people in California, in Pacific, from what it measures to how to arrange a draw.

Sample type
hair
Category
Drug & Urine Screening
Turnaround
1-3 business days
Price
$59
Referral
Not required

A hair drug test detects certain drugs or their breakdown products that have been deposited in hair over time. It is typically ordered to check for recent or past drug use, often in workplace, legal, or clinical settings.

What it measures

  • Amphetamines — Includes methamphetamine and related stimulants.
  • Cocaine — Detects cocaine and its main metabolite, benzoylecgonine.
  • Opiates — Covers drugs like morphine, codeine, and heroin markers.
  • Phencyclidine (PCP) — A dissociative drug sometimes included in standard panels.
  • Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — The active component in marijuana.

Who it is for

Employers, legal professionals, and sometimes doctors order hair drug tests. They may be used for pre-employment screening, post-accident testing, or monitoring in treatment programs.

Preparation

No fasting or special preparation is needed. Hair is collected from the head, and the sample is cut close to the scalp; if head hair is insufficient, body hair may be used.

Results and what they mean

Results are reported as positive or negative for each drug, with a detection window of roughly 90 days. A clinician interprets results in context, as they do not diagnose a condition or prove impairment. This is general information, not medical advice.

Requesting the Hair Drugs Tests in California

Order online, choose a certified collection site in California, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. Access across Pacific is uneven, so confirming a site ahead of time is worthwhile.

Frequently asked questions

How far back can a hair drug test detect drug use?

It can typically detect drug use from about 90 days prior, depending on hair length and growth rate.

Can I wash my hair to remove drugs before the test?

No. Washing or treating hair does not reliably remove drugs that have been incorporated into the hair shaft.

What if I don't have enough head hair?

The collector may use hair from other parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, or underarms.

Is a hair drug test the same as a urine drug test?

No. Hair tests look for long-term use, while urine tests usually detect recent use over a few days.

Hair Drugs Tests by city in California

All testing in California →   Full Hair Drugs Tests guide →