Does Securitas Drug Test?
Last updated:
Securitas drug tests most security officer positions. As one of the largest security companies in the world, Securitas requires pre-employment drug testing for the majority of its guard and officer positions.
Securitas drug tests most employees, particularly security officer and guard positions. Securitas Security Services USA is the second-largest private security company in North America (after Allied Universal) and employs hundreds of thousands of security professionals. Pre-employment drug testing is standard for security officer positions across most client sites. The test is typically a urine drug screen conducted at a third-party clinic. Securitas' clients — which include corporate offices, healthcare facilities, government buildings, and residential complexes — generally require their security providers to maintain drug-free workforces. Marijuana is included in the screening panel regardless of state legalization laws.
Drug Testing by Position
| Position | Tested? | Test Type | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Officer / Guard | Yes | Urine | Pre-employment, post-accident, reasonable suspicion |
| Armed Security Officer | Yes | Urine | Pre-employment, random, post-accident |
| Mobile Patrol Officer | Yes | Urine | Pre-employment, post-accident, reasonable suspicion |
| Account Manager / Supervisor | Yes | Urine | Pre-employment, post-accident |
| Corporate / Administrative | Varies | Urine (if tested) | Pre-employment (some roles), post-accident |
Why Securitas Drug Tests
Securitas drug tests its security workforce because of the nature of the work and client requirements. Security officers are responsible for protecting people, property, and assets. They may carry weapons (armed positions), operate vehicles (mobile patrol), and make critical decisions about safety and security. Securitas' clients — including major corporations, hospitals, government agencies, and residential communities — require their security providers to drug test employees. This is both a contractual requirement and an industry standard for professional security services.
What the Drug Test Involves
Securitas typically requires a standard urine drug test at a third-party testing facility (such as Quest Diagnostics or LabCorp). The test screens for marijuana (THC), cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP. You will receive a conditional job offer contingent on passing the drug test and background check. You typically have 24-48 hours to complete the test at a designated facility. Results are usually available within 2-5 business days.
Marijuana Policy at Securitas
Securitas tests for marijuana (THC) regardless of state legalization laws. The security industry has not followed the broader trend of dropping marijuana from drug test panels. Client contracts often specifically require marijuana-free workforces, and the safety-sensitive nature of security work means Securitas has not relaxed this requirement. If you use marijuana — even legally in your state — be aware that a positive THC result will likely disqualify you from security positions at Securitas.
Tips for Applicants
Securitas is one of the largest employers of security professionals in the United States. The company offers a wide range of positions from unarmed building security to armed patrol officers. If you are interested in security work, start by applying through the Securitas career portal. Be prepared to pass a drug test, background check, and (for armed positions) a firearms qualification. Securitas provides training for new officers and many people start their security careers here.
Recent Policy Changes
- 2020-2023: Maintained strict drug testing requirements for security officers despite industry-wide relaxation trends in other sectors
- 2024-2026: Continues requiring pre-employment drug testing for security positions; marijuana still included in screening panel regardless of state legalization
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Securitas drug test security officers?
- Yes. Securitas drug tests the vast majority of security officer and guard positions as part of the pre-employment process.
- Does Securitas drug test for marijuana?
- Yes. Securitas tests for marijuana (THC) regardless of state legalization laws. The security industry maintains strict drug-free workplace requirements.
- What type of drug test does Securitas use?
- Securitas uses a standard urine drug test at a third-party testing facility. The test screens for THC, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP.
- Does Securitas do random drug tests?
- Armed security officers and officers at certain client sites may be subject to random drug testing. Unarmed officers may be tested post-accident or on reasonable suspicion.
- Does Securitas hire felons?
- Securitas conducts thorough background checks for all security positions. Certain felony convictions — particularly violent crimes, theft, and drug offenses — may disqualify you. State security licensing requirements also impose restrictions. However, some older or less serious convictions may not be automatic disqualifiers.
- How long does the Securitas hiring process take?
- The Securitas hiring process typically takes 1-3 weeks, including the application, interview, drug test, background check, and any required licensing or training.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Securitas Careers — Apply for security jobs
Official Securitas Security Services USA career portal
- 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
Related Resources on This Site
Also about this company
Similar companies
Helpful guides
- Pardon & ClemencyPardon & clemency by state — how to get a pardon
- DUI RecoveryHow to find a DUI lawyer
- Safety & ProtectionDomestic Violence Lawyer
- Free Legal AidFree legal aid by state