Does Del Taco Drug Test?
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Del Taco generally does not drug test employees during the hiring process. Most locations do not require pre-employment drug screening for restaurant positions.
Del Taco does not drug test most employees during the hiring process. Del Taco operates over 600 locations, primarily in the western United States (California, Nevada, Arizona, and surrounding states). The chain was acquired by Jack in the Box in 2022 and operates through a mix of corporate and franchise locations. Neither corporate nor most franchise locations require pre-employment drug testing for crew members, cooks, or cashiers. Del Taco has a straightforward hiring process that prioritizes getting people working quickly.
Drug Testing by Position
| Position | Tested? | Test Type | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Team Member / Cashier | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Cook / Kitchen Staff | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Drive-Through Operator | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Shift Leader | Rarely | Urine (if tested) | Post-accident, reasonable suspicion |
| General Manager | Varies | Urine (if tested) | Pre-employment (some locations), post-accident |
Del Taco's Hiring Process
Del Taco's hiring process is typical of the fast-food industry — apply online or in person, complete a brief interview, and start training. Drug testing is not part of this process at most locations. Since Del Taco was acquired by Jack in the Box, the company has been expanding and actively hiring. Most locations are looking for reliable people who can work the counter, kitchen, or drive-through. The process is designed to be fast and get people on the schedule as quickly as possible.
Marijuana and Workplace Policy
Del Taco operates primarily in California and other western states where marijuana is legal for recreational use. The company does not screen for marijuana during the hiring process. All employees are expected to be sober on the job. Del Taco's focus is on whether employees can perform their duties safely and effectively, not on off-duty substance use.
Tips for Applicants
Del Taco offers flexible scheduling and a quick path to employment. Apply online through the Del Taco or Jack in the Box careers website, or walk into any location to ask about openings. The chain values reliability and a willingness to learn. Prior fast-food experience is helpful but not required. Del Taco offers competitive pay for the fast-food industry and opportunities for advancement into management roles.
Recent Policy Changes
- 2020-2023: Like most restaurant chains, maintained minimal drug testing during the pandemic labor shortage to maximize hiring
- 2024-2026: Continues the industry-wide trend of not drug testing restaurant-level employees for pre-employment
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Del Taco drug test employees?
- No, Del Taco generally does not drug test employees during the hiring process for restaurant positions.
- Does Del Taco drug test for marijuana?
- No. Del Taco does not screen for marijuana during hiring. The chain operates primarily in states where marijuana is legal.
- Does Del Taco do random drug tests?
- No. Del Taco does not conduct random drug testing for restaurant employees.
- Is Del Taco easy to get hired at?
- Yes. Del Taco has a fast hiring process and many locations are actively hiring. Walk-in applications are accepted at most locations.
- Does Del Taco do background checks?
- Background check policies vary by location. Some locations run basic checks, but Del Taco is generally accessible to applicants with criminal records.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Del Taco Careers — Apply for jobs
Official Del Taco career portal for restaurant positions
- SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service: 1-800-662-4357
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