Drug Testing Program (Biochemical Testing Program)

The Army Biochemical Testing Program encompasses the Active Army, National Guard and the Army Reserve. The program is a command program, composed of the Soldier, the commander, the Unit Prevention Leader (UPL), the Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) staff, the Forensic Toxicology Drug Testing Laboratories (FTDTL), the Medical Review Officer, and the Staff Judge Advocate. The program has three primary goals. First, to deter Soldiers from abusing drugs (including illegal drugs and other illicit drugs). Second, as a tool for commanders to assess the security, military fitness, good order and discipline of their commands. Third, to serve as a basis to take appropriate action, adverse or other (including referral for treatment), with a Soldier based on a positive test result.

Army Policy

In accordance with AR 600-85, Army Substance Abuse Program, drug abuse will not be tolerated and there are serious consequences for such misbehavior.

  • a. All Soldiers, to include ARNG and USAR Soldiers ordered to AD, under Title 10, U.S. Code, who are identified as drug abusers, without exception, will-
    • 1. Be referred to the SUDDC counseling center for screening.
    • 2. Be considered for disciplinary action under the UCMJ, as appropriate.
    • 3. Be processed for administrative separation in accordance with AR 600-8-24 (for officers and warrant officers) and AR 635-200 (for enlisted personnel).
  • b. Discharge for misconduct under AR 600-8-24 or AR 635-200, as appropriate, will be initiated and processed to the separation authority for all Soldiers involved in illegal trafficking, distribution, possession, use, or sale of illegal drugs. Soldiers will also be considered for disciplinary action under the UCMJ, consistent with Chapter 6, AR 600-85 and Rule for Courts Martial 306, MCM.
  • c. All ARNG and USAR Soldiers ordered to AD will be tested for illegal drug abuse at their reception station.
  • d. The ingestion of hemp seed oil or products made with hemp seed oil is prohibited.

Biochemical Testing Program Objectives:

  • Deter soldiers, including those members on initial entry on AD after enlistment or appointment, from abusing drugs (including illegal drugs, other illicit substances, and prescribed medication).
  • Facilitate early identification of alcohol and/or other drug abuse.
  • Enable commanders to assess the security, military fitness, good order and discipline of their units, and to use information obtained to take appropriate action (e.g., UCMJ, administrative, or other actions, including referral to the ASAP clinic for screening, evaluation, and possible treatment).
  • Monitor rehabilitation of those who require testing as part of their rehabilitation plan.
  • Determine the presence of a controlled substance in the urine or alcohol in the blood or breath during inspections.
  • Collect data on the prevalence of alcohol and/or other drug abuse within the Fort Cavazos community and the Army.

The forensic toxicology laboratory tests for seven categories of drugs, as authorized by the Department of Defense. Every urine sample is tested for THC, Cocaine, Amphetamines, and Heroine. Tests for the other four drugs are done on a random rotational basis; these drugs include Opiates, Oxycodone, Oxymorphone, and PCP. Tests for Steroids are a probable cause test only. Currently no active-duty soldier is authorized usage of delta 8 or any other hemp products.

Operating Hours

Civilian Collections - Monday thru Friday from 0800 - 1530

Military samples may be turned in Monday thru Thursday from 0900 - 100 and 1300 - 1530.

If a Commander wants to conduct a urinalysis on Thursday afternoon, Friday, Saturday or Sunday, the samples can be stored until turn-in time on Monday.

Testing supplies may be picked up the same hours.  Supply pickup for deployment will be Friday 1300 till close of business.

 DTC point of contact can be reached at (254) 287-4714.