Does Sam's Club Drug Test?

Drug Testing by Position

Sam's Club Follows Walmart's Drug Testing Framework

Sam's Club is a wholly owned subsidiary of Walmart Inc. and generally follows the same drug testing policies as its parent company. Like Walmart, Sam's Club has shifted away from pre-employment drug testing for most non-safety-sensitive positions. This includes cashiers, floor associates, member service representatives, and stocking team members. The trend reflects the competitive labor market and the growing number of states with laws restricting pre-employment marijuana testing. However, Sam's Club maintains testing requirements for safety-sensitive positions including pharmacy staff, forklift operators, and CDL drivers.

Pharmacy Positions — Always Tested

Sam's Club pharmacy technicians and pharmacists are required to pass a pre-employment drug test. Sam's Club operates pharmacies inside most of its warehouse club locations, and these positions are regulated by state pharmacy boards. Handling controlled substances requires compliance with strict professional standards, and drug testing is a regulatory requirement. This applies regardless of state marijuana laws — pharmacy positions are typically exempt from state restrictions on pre-employment marijuana testing.

Safety-Sensitive Warehouse Roles

Sam's Club warehouse club locations involve significant forklift and heavy equipment use for moving palletized merchandise. Employees who operate forklifts, reach trucks, or other powered industrial equipment are typically required to pass a pre-employment drug test. This is a safety-driven requirement given the risk of injury in a busy warehouse environment. If you are applying for a position that involves operating powered equipment, expect to be drug tested.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Sam's Club drug test cashiers?

Generally no. Sam's Club does not typically drug test cashiers or member service associates during the hiring process. These positions are not considered safety-sensitive, and pre-employment drug testing has been reduced for these roles. You are still subject to post-accident and reasonable-suspicion testing.

Does Sam's Club drug test pharmacy employees?

Yes. Sam's Club pharmacy technicians and pharmacists are always required to pass a pre-employment drug test. These positions involve handling controlled substances and are regulated by state pharmacy boards. Drug testing is mandatory regardless of state marijuana laws.

What type of drug test does Sam's Club use?

Sam's Club typically uses urine drug tests (urinalysis) when testing is required. The standard panel screens for marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. For DOT-regulated CDL driver positions, testing follows federal DOT standards.

Does Sam's Club drug test forklift operators?

Yes. Employees who operate forklifts, reach trucks, or other powered industrial equipment at Sam's Club are typically required to pass a pre-employment drug test. Operating heavy equipment creates significant safety risks, and drug testing helps ensure workplace safety.

Is Sam's Club's drug policy the same as Walmart's?

Largely yes. Sam's Club is owned by Walmart and follows the same general drug testing framework. Most non-safety-sensitive positions are not tested. Pharmacy, equipment operators, and CDL drivers are tested. Specific policies may vary slightly by location and state law.