Does Cabela's Drug Test?

Drug Testing by Position

Drug Test Type and Process

Cabela's typically administers its drug test after you accept a conditional job offer and before your first day. Applicants describe a standard urine test collected off-site at a third-party clinic, screening for marijuana (THC), cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines. Some employees also report random on-site testing done by mouth/cheek swab. The process is usually paired with a background check, which matters given the company's firearms sales. You are generally given a short window to complete the screen at a designated collection site; refusing or returning a non-negative result normally ends the hiring process. Firearms counter, distribution/warehouse, and management roles are the most consistently tested, while a small number of general retail or seasonal applicants report not being screened — so confirm with your specific store.

Marijuana Policy

Cabela's has not announced dropping marijuana from its drug panel, so THC is still screened where a test is used. Because Cabela's sells firearms and ammunition and operates under a drug-free workplace policy, off-duty cannabis use can be a barrier even in states where recreational or medical marijuana is legal — marijuana remains federally illegal, and many employers keep testing regardless of state law. That said, a handful of states and cities restrict pre-employment marijuana screening, which may affect some non-safety retail roles. If you use cannabis, treat a Cabela's application as one where THC testing is likely, especially for firearms, warehouse, or management positions, and ask the hiring manager about the specific role's requirements before accepting an offer.

Tips for Applicants

Apply through Cabela's or Bass Pro's official careers site; applications are accepted online. Expect a background check and, for most roles, a pre-employment urine drug test after a conditional offer — plan to complete it quickly once scheduled. If you are applying to the firearms or ammunition counter, know that both drug screening and a firearms-related background check are standard. Outdoor knowledge and customer-service skills help in interviews, since 'Outfitter' roles are sales-focused. For distribution center jobs, be ready for safety-sensitive testing tied to forklifts and equipment. If you have a record, Cabela's/Bass Pro does consider applicants case by case; applying in a 'ban the box' state and being honest about your history can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Cabela's drug test for weed?

Yes, where a test is administered it includes marijuana (THC). Cabela's has not removed cannabis from its panel, and because it sells firearms and operates a drug-free workplace, off-duty marijuana use can be a barrier even in states where it is legal. A few states and cities restrict pre-employment marijuana screening for some roles.

Does Cabela's drug test before you start?

Yes, typically. Applicants report completing a urine drug test after accepting a conditional offer and before their first day. Firearms, distribution, and management roles are the most consistently tested.

What kind of drug test does Cabela's use?

A standard urine test collected at a third-party lab, screening for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines. Some employees also report random on-site cheek-swab testing.

Does Cabela's drug test for the firearms counter?

Yes. Firearms and ammunition counter roles are among the most consistently tested at Cabela's, and they also involve a firearms-related background check in addition to the standard hiring screen.

Does Cabela's drug test current employees?

Cabela's does not routinely drug test existing employees, but it reserves the right to test based on reasonable suspicion or after a workplace accident. Safety-sensitive and distribution roles may face additional testing.

Does every Cabela's store drug test?

Most do for the majority of roles, but experiences vary. A small number of general retail or seasonal applicants report not being screened at certain locations, so confirm the current policy with the specific store you are applying to.