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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.
- A 7-panel drug test includes the five main categories of drugs from a 5-panel test (marijuana, cocaine, basic opioids, phencyclidine, and amphetamines), plus barbiturates and benzodiazepines.
- The 7-panel drug test is commonly called the DOT mirror drug test, as it tests for the same substances as the common DOT drug test.
- This is a very commonly used test by employers, including those operating motor vehicles, for pre-employment screenings, and any employment misconduct concerns.
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. The 7-panel drug test screens for these substances:
- Marijuana (including THC and cannabinoids)
- Cocaine
- Opioids (including heroin, codeine, hydrocodone, and morphine)
- Phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust)
- Amphetamines/methamphetamines (including methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine)
- Barbiturates (including Amytal and butalbital)
- Benzodiazepines
What does DOT mirror test mean?
DOT stands for Department of Transportation.[1] This organization has specific requirements for testing anyone operating vehicles 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.
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
- Opioids (including heroin, codeine, hydrocodone, and morphine)
- Phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust)
- Amphetamines/methamphetamines (including methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine)
- Barbiturates (including Amytal and butalbital)
- Benzodiazepines[2]
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 the Department of Transportation regulations, like trucking, commercial vehicle drivers, and bus drivers.
Employers following DOT regulations may ask for a 7-panel drug test to be performed for many reasons.[1] 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
