Does Ross Stores Drug Test?
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Ross Stores (Ross Dress for Less) generally does not drug test employees during the hiring process. Most store-level positions — including sales associates, cashiers, and stockers — are not subject to pre-employment drug screening.
Ross Stores (Ross Dress for Less) does not typically drug test applicants for retail store positions. Sales associates, cashiers, stockers, and fitting room attendants are not required to take a drug test during the hiring process. Ross is a corporate-owned chain (not franchised) with over 1,700 locations, and the no-drug-test policy is generally consistent across stores. The hiring process involves an application, interview, and background check — no drug screening is included. Distribution center employees may face different requirements. All employees are subject to post-accident and reasonable-suspicion testing under Ross's drug-free workplace policy.
Drug Testing by Position
| Position | Tested? | Test Type | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sales Associate / Cashier | No | N/A | Post-accident, reasonable suspicion only |
| Stocker / Back Room | No | N/A | Post-accident, reasonable suspicion only |
| Fitting Room Attendant | No | N/A | Post-accident, reasonable suspicion only |
| Supervisor / Area Supervisor | Rarely | Urine (if tested) | Post-accident, reasonable suspicion |
| Store Manager / Assistant Manager | Rarely | Urine (if tested) | Post-accident, reasonable suspicion |
Drug Test Type and Process
Ross Stores does not include drug testing as part of its standard hiring process for retail store positions. In the rare event that a drug test is administered (such as after a workplace accident), it would be a standard urine drug test at a third-party clinic. The test screens for marijuana (THC), cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Ross's hiring process is designed for efficiency — the company operates a high-volume off-price retail model and needs to fill positions quickly, particularly during back-to-school and holiday seasons.
Marijuana Policy
Since Ross does not drug test most employees during hiring, marijuana use is generally not a barrier to employment. Ross maintains a drug-free workplace policy, meaning being impaired while on the job is prohibited. The focus is on job performance, customer service, and loss prevention rather than off-duty substance use. Ross operates primarily in states where marijuana is legal for recreational or medical use, and the company's hiring practices reflect the practical reality of the labor market.
Tips for Applicants
Ross Stores is a solid option for applicants seeking retail employment without drug testing concerns. The company offers flexible scheduling and a fast hiring process. Ross values availability (especially evenings and weekends), reliability, and willingness to handle physical tasks like processing freight and organizing merchandise. The off-price retail model means stores are constantly receiving new inventory, so physical stamina is important. Apply online or visit your local Ross store to inquire about openings.
Recent Policy Changes
- 2019-2021: Ross Stores maintained its no-drug-test approach for store-level employees, consistent with the off-price retail industry standard
- 2024-2026: Ross continues not drug testing retail store employees during the hiring process
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Ross drug test sales associates?
- No. Ross Stores does not drug test sales associates, cashiers, or other store-level employees during the hiring process. The hiring process involves an application, interview, and background check — no drug test is included.
- Does Ross drug test for marijuana?
- Ross does not drug test store employees during hiring, so marijuana screening is not part of the process. Being impaired at work is prohibited, but off-duty marijuana use will not prevent you from being hired.
- What type of drug test does Ross use?
- In the rare event that Ross administers a drug test (typically post-accident), it uses a standard urine test at a third-party clinic. Most retail store applicants will not encounter a drug test.
- Does Ross drug test managers?
- Ross store managers and assistant managers are generally not drug tested during the hiring or promotion process. Post-accident and reasonable-suspicion testing may apply, but pre-employment drug testing is not standard even for management positions.
- Does Ross do random drug tests?
- No. Ross Stores does not conduct random drug tests for retail store employees. Testing is limited to post-accident and reasonable-suspicion situations.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Ross Stores Careers — Search and apply for jobs
Official Ross Stores career portal for store and distribution center positions
- SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service: 1-800-662-4357
- NORML — State marijuana laws
State-by-state guide to marijuana legalization and workplace protections
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