Does Swift Transportation Drug Test?

Drug Testing by Position

Swift Uses Hair Follicle Testing in Addition to DOT Urine Testing

Swift Transportation is one of a growing number of major carriers that use hair follicle drug testing in addition to the DOT-mandated urine test. Hair follicle testing can detect drug use over a much longer period — typically up to 90 days — compared to urine testing, which generally detects use within the past few days. Swift requires both tests for all CDL driver applicants. The hair follicle test screens for the same substances as the DOT urine test: marijuana (THC), cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP. While the DOT does not officially mandate hair testing, Swift uses it as a company policy to maintain higher safety standards.

DOT-Mandated Testing Requirements

As a DOT-regulated motor carrier, Swift is required to conduct drug testing under 49 CFR Part 40 for all safety-sensitive employees. This includes pre-employment testing before a driver can operate a commercial motor vehicle, random testing of at least 25% of the driver pool annually for drugs, post-accident testing after DOT-reportable accidents, reasonable-suspicion testing when a trained supervisor observes signs of impairment, and return-to-duty testing after a violation. Swift participates fully in the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse and conducts pre-employment and annual queries on all drivers.

Swift's CDL Training Program and Drug Testing

Swift operates one of the largest CDL training programs in the trucking industry, offering training to aspiring truck drivers who do not yet have their CDL. Drug testing occurs before training begins — applicants must pass both the DOT urine test and the hair follicle test before they can start the Swift Driving Academy program. If you fail either test, you will be disqualified from the training program. This means that aspiring drivers need to be drug-free for at least 90 days before applying to Swift's training program due to the hair follicle test's detection window.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Swift do hair follicle drug tests?

Yes. Swift Transportation requires both a DOT-mandated urine drug test and a hair follicle drug test for all CDL driver applicants. The hair follicle test can detect drug use up to 90 days back, which is significantly longer than the urine test. You must pass both tests to be hired as a driver at Swift.

Does Swift drug test student drivers?

Yes. If you are applying to Swift's CDL training program (Swift Driving Academy), you must pass both a urine drug test and a hair follicle test before training begins. This applies even if you do not yet have a CDL. Failing either test disqualifies you from the training program.

What does Swift's drug test screen for?

Swift's drug tests screen for marijuana (THC), cocaine, opioids (including heroin and prescription painkillers), amphetamines (including methamphetamine), and PCP. Both the urine test and hair follicle test screen for these same five substance categories. Marijuana is always included regardless of state legalization.

Does Swift do random drug tests?

Yes. All Swift CDL drivers are subject to mandatory DOT random drug testing. Federal law requires carriers to randomly test at least 25% of their safety-sensitive driver pool for drugs and 10% for alcohol each year. If selected, you must report for testing within the required timeframe or face consequences equivalent to a positive test.

How long do I need to be clean to pass Swift's drug test?

Because Swift uses hair follicle testing, you need to be drug-free for at least 90 days before your pre-employment test. Hair follicle tests detect drug metabolites deposited in the hair shaft as it grows, providing a much longer detection window than urine tests. Urine tests typically detect use within 3-30 days depending on the substance and frequency of use.