Does Best Western Hotels & Resorts Drug Test?

Drug Testing by Position

Best Western's Franchise Model — Owner Sets the Policy

Best Western Hotels & Resorts operates as a membership association where each hotel is independently owned and managed. Unlike chain-managed hotel companies, Best Western does not set centralized employment policies for its member hotels. Each property owner decides whether to require drug testing for new hires. In practice, most Best Western owners follow the hospitality industry norm of not requiring pre-employment drug testing for standard hotel positions. Best Western properties tend to be smaller, independently operated hotels, and the owners often handle hiring directly.

Why Most Best Western Hotels Don't Test

Small, independently owned hotels like many Best Western properties typically do not drug test for several reasons. The cost of drug testing is a significant expense for small businesses. The hospitality industry faces persistent labor shortages, and adding drug testing can reduce the applicant pool. Most hotel positions (front desk, housekeeping, breakfast attendant) are not safety-sensitive in a way that would justify mandatory testing. Additionally, many Best Western properties have small staffs where the owner or manager personally knows each employee, relying on direct supervision rather than pre-employment screening.

When Testing Might Apply

While most Best Western properties do not test, some situations may require it. Best Western hotels located on or near military bases or government properties may have additional requirements. Properties in states or municipalities with specific drug-free workplace mandates may be required to test. Some owners who have strong personal feelings about drug testing may implement it at their property. If you are unsure, simply ask during the application process — front desk managers or property managers can tell you right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Best Western drug test?

Most Best Western hotels do not drug test for standard positions like front desk, housekeeping, and breakfast attendant. However, each Best Western is independently owned, so policies can vary. Ask the hiring manager at the specific property where you are applying.

Are Best Western drug testing policies the same everywhere?

No. Because Best Western hotels are independently owned and operated, drug testing policies vary from property to property. There is no company-wide mandate. Each owner sets their own hiring requirements including whether to drug test.

Does Best Western drug test for marijuana?

Most Best Western properties do not drug test at all for standard hotel positions. If a specific property does test, the panel may or may not include marijuana (THC) depending on the owner's preference and state laws.

Does Best Western Plus or Best Western Premier drug test?

Best Western Plus and Best Western Premier are brand tiers within the Best Western family, but they are still independently owned properties. Drug testing policies depend on the individual owner, not the brand tier. Most do not test for standard hotel positions.

Can I work at Best Western with a criminal record?

Background check policies at Best Western hotels depend on the individual property owner. Many independently owned hotels, including Best Westerns, are open to hiring people with criminal records. Small hotel owners often value reliability and work ethic over a clean background check.