Does Kroger Drug Test?

Drug Testing by Position

Kroger's Drug Test Policy Varies by Position and Location

Kroger is the largest supermarket chain in the United States, operating over 2,700 stores under multiple banners including Kroger, Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Harris Teeter, Smith's, King Soopers, Fry's, and others. Because Kroger operates across dozens of states with varying marijuana laws and employment regulations, its drug testing policy is not uniform. The general trend is that safety-sensitive and regulated positions (pharmacy, warehouse, CDL drivers) are always tested, while general grocery positions are tested in some markets but not others. Your specific location and state laws play a significant role in determining whether you will be drug tested.

Pharmacy Positions — Always Tested

Kroger pharmacy technicians and pharmacists are universally required to pass a pre-employment drug test, including screening for marijuana (THC). Pharmacy positions are regulated by state pharmacy boards, which require adherence to strict professional standards. Because pharmacists and pharmacy technicians handle controlled substances, drug testing is both a company requirement and a regulatory necessity. This applies regardless of state marijuana laws — even in states that prohibit pre-employment marijuana testing for most positions, pharmacy roles are typically exempt due to their regulatory nature.

Warehouse and Distribution — Mandatory Testing

Kroger distribution center and warehouse employees are subject to mandatory pre-employment drug testing. These positions involve operating forklifts, pallet jacks, and other heavy equipment in fast-paced environments, creating significant safety concerns. Drug testing for warehouse positions typically includes a standard urine test and may also involve random testing during employment. Kroger operates multiple distribution centers across the country, and the drug testing requirement is consistent across all of them.

General Grocery Positions — State and Location Dependent

For general grocery store positions — cashiers, baggers, stockers, deli clerks, bakery workers — the drug testing requirement varies significantly. In states without specific pre-employment marijuana testing restrictions, many Kroger locations still conduct pre-employment drug testing for all new hires. However, in states like California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Montana, Nevada, Rhode Island, and Washington that have enacted laws prohibiting or restricting pre-employment marijuana testing for non-safety-sensitive positions, Kroger has adjusted its practices accordingly. Even within states that allow testing, some Kroger locations have reduced or eliminated testing for hourly grocery positions due to labor market conditions.

State Laws Affecting Kroger's Drug Testing

A growing number of states have passed laws that directly restrict or prohibit employers from conducting pre-employment marijuana testing for non-safety-sensitive positions. As of 2026, states with some form of restriction include California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Montana, Nevada, Rhode Island, Washington, Minnesota, and others. In these states, Kroger cannot test general grocery employees for marijuana during the hiring process (though they can still test for other substances and can test after accidents or for reasonable suspicion). Kroger's policy adapts to comply with local laws, which is why the drug testing experience varies so much from state to state.

What Type of Drug Test Does Kroger Use?

Kroger uses two primary methods for drug testing: urine drug tests (urinalysis) and mouth swab (oral fluid) tests. Urine tests are the most common and are standard for pharmacy, warehouse, and management positions. Mouth swab tests are sometimes used for general grocery positions because they are quicker, less invasive, and detect more recent drug use (typically within 24-72 hours). The specific test type can vary by location and position. For DOT-regulated CDL driver positions, urine or oral fluid testing is conducted per federal DOT standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Kroger drug test cashiers and baggers?

It depends on the location and state. In some states, Kroger drug tests all new hires including cashiers and baggers. In states that have enacted laws prohibiting pre-employment marijuana testing for non-safety-sensitive positions (such as California, New York, and New Jersey), Kroger does not test cashiers and baggers for marijuana. The best way to know is to ask during the interview process or check recent employee reports for your specific location.

Does Kroger drug test pharmacy technicians?

Yes. Kroger pharmacy technicians are always required to pass a pre-employment drug test, including screening for marijuana (THC). This applies regardless of state marijuana laws because pharmacy positions are regulated by state pharmacy boards and involve handling controlled substances. If you are applying for a pharmacy technician position at any Kroger banner, expect a drug test.

What kind of drug test does Kroger use?

Kroger primarily uses urine drug tests (urinalysis) and mouth swab (oral fluid) tests. Urine tests are standard for pharmacy, warehouse, management, and CDL driver positions. Mouth swab tests are sometimes used for general grocery positions because they are faster and less invasive. The standard panel screens for marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP.

Does Kroger test for marijuana/THC?

For pharmacy, warehouse, CDL driver, and management positions, yes — Kroger tests for THC. For general grocery positions, it depends on the state. In states that prohibit pre-employment marijuana testing for non-safety-sensitive jobs (California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Nevada, and others), Kroger does not test for THC in those roles. In other states, THC may still be included in the screening panel.

Does Kroger do random drug tests?

Random drug testing at Kroger is primarily limited to warehouse/distribution center employees and CDL truck drivers (who are subject to DOT-mandated random testing). Random testing for general grocery store employees is uncommon. However, all Kroger employees are subject to post-accident testing and reasonable-suspicion testing at any time.

Do Fred Meyer, Ralphs, and Harris Teeter drug test?

Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Harris Teeter, Smith's, King Soopers, Fry's, and other Kroger-owned banners generally follow the same drug testing framework as Kroger. Pharmacy, warehouse, and CDL positions are tested. General store positions vary by state and location. The same state law restrictions that apply to Kroger apply to all its subsidiary banners.

Does Kroger drug test deli and bakery workers?

Deli and bakery positions at Kroger are generally treated the same as other general grocery positions. Whether you are drug tested depends on the specific location and state law. In states without testing restrictions, some Kroger locations test all new hires including deli and bakery workers. In states with testing restrictions, these positions are typically exempt from pre-employment marijuana screening.

What happens if I fail a Kroger drug test?

If you fail a pre-employment drug test at Kroger, your job offer will be rescinded. If you are a current employee who fails a post-accident or reasonable-suspicion test, you may face disciplinary action up to and including termination. For DOT-regulated positions (CDL drivers), a positive test triggers mandatory referral to a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and a formal return-to-duty process.

Does Kroger drug test during orientation?

Kroger's drug testing typically occurs before orientation, not during it. If your position requires a drug test, you will usually be directed to a third-party testing site after receiving your conditional job offer and before your first day. Some employees report being tested on the same day as their interview, while others are given a few days to complete the test.

Can I refuse a Kroger drug test?

If drug testing is required for your position, refusing to take the test is treated the same as a positive result. Your job offer will be rescinded or, if you are a current employee, you may be terminated. However, if you are in a state where pre-employment marijuana testing is prohibited for your position type, you can raise that issue with HR if asked to test.