Does IHG Hotels & Resorts Drug Test?

Drug Testing by Position

IHG's Drug Testing Policy — Generally No Testing for Most Roles

IHG Hotels & Resorts (InterContinental Hotels Group) operates over 6,000 hotels across 100+ countries under brands including Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Crowne Plaza, InterContinental, Kimpton, Hotel Indigo, and Staybridge Suites. For most standard hotel positions, IHG does not require pre-employment drug testing. The hospitality industry norm is to not test for most hotel roles, and IHG follows this approach. Front desk agents, housekeepers, food and beverage staff, banquet workers, and similar positions can generally be hired without a drug test.

Franchise Properties — Policies May Differ

The majority of IHG-branded hotels are franchise-owned and independently operated. This means that drug testing policies can vary from property to property. A Holiday Inn Express owned by one management company may not drug test at all, while a Crowne Plaza owned by a different company might test certain positions. IHG corporate does not mandate pre-employment drug testing for most franchise hotel roles, but franchise owners have discretion to implement their own policies. When applying to an IHG-branded hotel, ask the hiring manager about the specific property's drug testing requirements.

Corporate-Managed Properties and IHG Corporate

IHG corporate offices (such as the Americas headquarters in Atlanta) and corporate-managed hotel properties generally do not require pre-employment drug testing for most positions. IHG focuses on creating an inclusive and supportive work environment. The company provides employee assistance programs and wellness resources. However, positions that involve safety-sensitive duties such as driving hotel shuttles or operating pool maintenance equipment may have different requirements at some properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Holiday Inn drug test?

Holiday Inn is an IHG brand, and most Holiday Inn properties do not require pre-employment drug testing for standard hotel roles. However, most Holiday Inns are franchise-owned, so policies may vary by location. Ask during the application process to confirm the specific property's requirements.

Does IHG drug test housekeepers?

No. IHG generally does not drug test housekeepers during the hiring process. This applies to corporate-managed properties across IHG brands. Franchise-owned properties may have different policies set by the individual owner/operator.

Does IHG drug test for marijuana?

For most positions, IHG does not drug test at all during the hiring process. If testing is required for a specific role or at a franchise property, the panel may include marijuana (THC). Reasonable-suspicion testing during employment may also include THC.

Does Crowne Plaza drug test?

Crowne Plaza is an IHG brand, and most properties follow the general IHG approach of not testing for standard hotel positions. However, as many Crowne Plazas are franchise-owned, the specific policy depends on the property owner. Ask during the interview.

Can I work at IHG hotels with a criminal record?

IHG evaluates candidates individually, and many hotel positions may be available to people with criminal backgrounds. IHG and its franchise partners have varying policies on criminal background checks. The hospitality industry generally offers second-chance employment opportunities for many positions.