A 7-panel drug test, also referred a DOT mirror test, is a form of drug toxicology that screens for 7 substance metabolites including cocaine, marijuana, amphetamines, and heroin. These drug tests are often requested by employers before hiring, as well as for legal purposes.
What is a 7-panel drug test?
The 7-panel drug test is sometimes called the DOT Mirror drug test because it is a non-DOT look-alike panel that matches the current DOT drug test requirements. This panel screens for the basic drug set, with the addition of expanded opiates, Ecstasy (MDMA).
What does DOT mirror test mean?
DOT stands for Department Of Transportation and the organization has specific requirements for testing anyone operating under DOT regulations. A DOT mirror test replicates the same drug screening as the normal DOT drug test and can be used in various scenarios.Â
What sample methods are used for 7-panel tests?
A 7-panel drug test is most commonly a urine sample that is screened in laboratory settings. Hair follicle 7-panel tests may also be performed for drug detection up to 90 days.
Related: Types of drug testÂ
What drugs are screened for in a 7-panel test?
- Marijuana (including THC and Cannabinoids)
- Cocaine
- Basic Opiates (includes Codeine and Morphine)
- Phencyclidine (PCP, Angel Dust)
- Amphetamines (includes Ritalin, Adderall)
- Ecstasy (Includes Molly and MDMA)
- 6-AM – 6-acetylmorphine (6-AM) is often detected soon after heroin use. It’s a metabolite of both heroin and morphine. Finding traces of 6-AM in the urine is a firm indicator of recent heroin use.
- Hydrocodone
When will I need to do a 7-panel drug test?
The most common use of 7-panel drug tests is for roles that fall under Department Of Transportation regulations like trucking, commercial vehicle drivers, and bus drivers.Â
Employers following DOT regulations may ask for a 7-panel drug test to be performed for many reasons. Common examples of required drug tests under DOT regulations include:
- Periodic employee screening
- Return to work examination
- Interview/onboarding examination
- After a work-based accident
- Random employee screening
- Suspicion of/reported intoxication (on or off duty)
Read here to learn more about the drug test process
