Does Arby's Drug Test?
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Arby's generally does not drug test employees. While Arby's is franchise-operated, the overwhelming majority of locations do not require drug testing for any crew-level position during the hiring process.
Arby's does not drug test employees at the vast majority of its locations. Arby's is a franchised restaurant chain owned by Inspire Brands, and drug testing policies are technically set by individual franchise owners. However, employee reports overwhelmingly confirm that drug testing is not part of the Arby's hiring process for crew members, cooks, or cashiers. The hiring process is typically fast and straightforward — application, interview, and onboarding — with no drug screening involved. Management positions may occasionally be tested at some franchises, but this is uncommon. Post-accident and reasonable-suspicion testing may still apply.
Drug Testing by Position
| Position | Tested? | Test Type | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crew Member / Cashier | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Cook / Kitchen Staff | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Shift Manager | Rarely | Urine (if tested) | Post-accident, reasonable suspicion |
| Assistant Manager | Rarely | Urine (if tested) | Pre-employment (rare), post-accident |
| General Manager | Sometimes | Urine | Pre-employment (some franchises), post-accident |
Drug Test Type and Process
Arby's rarely administers drug tests for any position. In the uncommon event that a franchise owner does require a drug test, it would typically be a urine drug test at a third-party clinic or a simple oral swab test. The standard panel screens for marijuana (THC), cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. However, the overwhelming consensus from current and former Arby's employees is that drug testing is simply not part of the hiring process at most locations. Arby's franchise owners prioritize filling shifts quickly rather than conducting extensive pre-employment screening.
Marijuana Policy
Since Arby's does not typically drug test, marijuana use is generally not a barrier to employment. However, Arby's franchise owners maintain drug-free workplace policies, meaning being visibly impaired by marijuana or any substance while working is prohibited and can result in termination. The focus at Arby's is on job performance and reliability rather than off-duty substance use. In states where marijuana is legal, this hands-off approach is especially well-established.
Tips for Applicants
Arby's is one of the more accessible fast-food employers with a fast hiring process and minimal screening requirements. Drug testing is uncommon, and the hiring process focuses on availability and customer service attitude. Arby's franchises hire quickly — many crew members start within a few days of their interview. If you are looking for quick employment with minimal barriers, Arby's is a strong option. Focus on being available for the shifts the location needs, especially lunch rushes and weekends.
Recent Policy Changes
- Historical: Arby's franchise owners have historically not required drug testing for crew-level restaurant employees, consistent with the broader fast-food industry trend
- 2024-2026: Arby's continues its established pattern of no drug testing at the vast majority of franchise locations
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Arby's drug test crew members?
- No. The vast majority of Arby's locations do not drug test crew members, cashiers, or kitchen staff. Drug testing is not part of the standard Arby's hiring process. You can typically apply, interview, and start working without taking a drug test.
- Does Arby's drug test for marijuana?
- Arby's does not typically drug test any employees, so marijuana screening is not a concern for most applicants. In the rare event that a franchise requires testing, the panel may include THC. Being impaired at work is prohibited regardless of state marijuana laws.
- What type of drug test does Arby's use?
- In the rare case that an Arby's franchise requires a drug test, it would typically be a urine test or oral swab test. However, drug testing at Arby's is so uncommon that most employees have never encountered it during the hiring process.
- Does Arby's drug test managers?
- Some Arby's franchises may test general managers during the hiring process, but this is not universal. Assistant managers and shift managers are rarely tested. Management drug testing at Arby's is less common than at many other restaurant chains.
- Does Arby's do random drug tests?
- No. Arby's franchise locations do not conduct random drug tests. The only scenarios where testing might occur are post-accident or reasonable-suspicion situations, and even those are uncommon at most Arby's locations.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Arby's Careers — Search and apply for jobs
Official Arby's career portal for restaurant and corporate positions
- SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service: 1-800-662-4357
- NORML — State marijuana laws
State-by-state guide to marijuana legalization and workplace protections
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