Does Subway Drug Test?

Does Subway Test For Weed?

Many applicants ask "Does Subway test for weed?" The short answer is: it depends. Subway's corporate guidance is limited, and actual testing practices are usually set by individual franchise owners and by applicable state or local laws.

Company Policy Versus Franchise Practice

Subway operates primarily through independently owned franchises, and corporate does not publish a single, nationwide drug testing policy that applies to every store. That means some franchise owners require pre-employment or random drug tests while others do not. If you're applying, the best approach is to ask the hiring manager or read the job posting for any mention of a drug screen.

State Law And Marijuana Legalization

Whether Subway tests for marijuana can be influenced by state and local law. In states where recreational marijuana is legal, employers still may test and enforce drug-free workplace rules, especially for safety-sensitive roles. Always check local regulations—some jurisdictions also limit employers' ability to test for off-duty marijuana use.

Medical Marijuana Considerations

Medical marijuana introduces additional complexity. Even with a qualifying prescription, employers can often enforce zero-tolerance policies for impairing drugs while on the job. If you have a legal medical cannabis card, disclose it during hiring if asked and be prepared to provide documentation and discuss accommodations where required by law.

THC Detection Windows And Test Types

THC detection varies by the type of test used. Urine tests can detect past use for days to weeks, saliva tests detect more recent use, hair tests can show a longer history, and blood tests detect current impairment for a short window. Knowing which test a franchise uses will help you understand detection risk.

• Urine: common, detects recent and prior use (days to several weeks depending on frequency).
• Saliva: shorter window, often used for recent use (hours to a few days).
• Hair: long window (up to 90 days) but less common for fast pre-employment screens.
• Blood: detects current THC in system, used less frequently for routine hiring.

Consequences For Positive Tests

A positive THC result at a Subway franchise can lead to different outcomes: a rescinded job offer, delayed hiring, or termination if you are already employed. Some franchises offer a chance to explain prescription use or request confirmatory testing; others apply a strict no-drug policy. If testing is part of a background check, consequences will follow the franchise's written policy.

Does Subway Test At Orientation?

Whether Subway tests at orientation varies widely by location and franchise. Orientation is often when paperwork is completed and any pre-employment requirements are communicated.

Typical Orientation Procedures

Orientation usually covers tax forms, company policies, scheduling, and basic training. If a drug test is required, the hiring manager typically explains the requirement during orientation or before orientation begins so you can complete the test as part of onboarding.

Timing Of Drug Tests

When testing is required, it often occurs after a conditional job offer but before official hire or first scheduled shift. Some franchises schedule the test during orientation day and direct you to an external clinic, while others request you complete testing prior to attending orientation.

Documentation And Consent Requirements

Drug testing requires consent and proper identification. Expect to sign authorization forms, provide photo ID, and possibly disclose prescription medications. Labs follow chain-of-custody procedures, so keep copies of any paperwork you receive.

Franchise Variations During Orientation

Remember that a Subway corporate orientation packet may not address local franchise testing rules. Franchisee policies vary, so if orientation materials don’t mention testing, ask the store manager directly to confirm whether testing will be required before your start date.

Does Subway Test New Hires?

Many franchises do perform pre-employment drug screening for new hires, but it's not universal across all Subway locations. The decision largely depends on the franchise owner, the role applied for, and local laws.

Conditional Job Offers And Screening

Common practice is to make a conditional job offer that is contingent on passing a drug test and background check. You typically will be informed which tests are required and given instructions on where and when to complete them. Failing to comply with the testing instructions can result in the offer being withdrawn.

Position And Location Factors

Positions that involve driving, handling cash, or operating heavy equipment are more likely to require testing. Urban locations, corporate-managed outlets, or stores contracted to serve institutions (like schools or hospitals) may have stricter screening requirements due to client policies or local ordinances.

Franchise Owner Discretion

Because franchise owners set many hiring policies, two nearby Subway stores can have different practices. If consistent hiring policies matter to you, ask the manager whether drug testing is standard for new hires at that specific location.

Onboarding Timelines And Testing

Drug test results can affect onboarding timelines; some tests return results within 24–72 hours while confirmatory testing may take longer. Expect a delay between the test and final hire if confirmation or medical review is required.

Retest And Follow Up Policies

Policies on retesting and rehabilitation vary by franchise. Some stores will allow reapplication or retesting after a defined period, while others maintain a permanent disqualification for positive results. If a positive test occurs, ask for the franchise’s written retest policy and any appeal or review process.

Does Subway Test At Interview?

Immediate drug testing during an interview is uncommon at Subway. Interviews typically focus on qualifications, availability, and fit; testing often happens later if required.

Immediate Testing During Interview Uncommon

It's rare for a candidate to be tested during the initial interview. If testing is required, the interviewer usually notifies you of the requirement and arranges an appointment at a clinic or schedules testing during orientation or before your first shift.

Interview Questions About Substance Use

Interviewers may ask whether you can perform the duties of the job and if you have any restrictions, but direct questions about off-duty lawful substance use are limited by state laws. Expect focused questions about your availability, reliability, and ability to drive if applying for delivery roles.

How To Respond To Testing Inquiries

If asked about drug testing during the interview, answer honestly and succinctly. If you currently use prescribed medications or medical marijuana, disclose that information only when relevant and be ready to provide documentation if requested during the screening process.

Legal Rights During The Interview Stage

Your legal protections depend on state and local laws. You generally have the right to refuse an unlawful or invasive request; however, refusing a lawful drug test required as a condition of employment can lead to the offer being withdrawn. Ask clarifying questions and, if needed, request written policy details.

What Positions Does Subway Drug Test For?

Subway's drug testing tends to focus on roles where safety, driving, or client policies are factors. Which positions are tested will depend on the franchise and local requirements.

Safety Sensitive Roles

Jobs that could risk employee or customer safety—such as closing managers handling late-night cash or employees operating cleaning chemicals and equipment—are more likely to be subject to testing. Employers prioritize safety-sensitive roles for pre-employment and post-incident screening.

Delivery And Driving Positions

Delivery drivers and any role that requires operating a vehicle are commonly tested due to the liability and safety considerations involved. Expect stricter screening for delivery positions, including checks for valid licenses and driving records in addition to drug tests.

Management And Supervisory Roles

Managers and supervisors may be subject to more comprehensive pre-employment checks, including drug screening, because they hold responsibility for cash handling, scheduling, and safety oversight. Franchise owners often want to minimize risk at leadership levels.

Corporate Versus Store Employees

Corporate or regional Subway employees may follow broader company-wide policies and formal drug-testing programs, while store-level staff are subject to the franchise owner's rules. Corporate roles that involve travel, equipment operation, or contract compliance often have clearer testing standards.

Entry Level Crew Positions

Entry level crew positions are less consistently tested, especially in locations with low liability concerns. However, in shops that supply institutions, serve alcohol, or have specific client contracts, even entry-level hires may be required to complete drug screening.

How Subway Drug Testing Works

If you are asked to take a drug test for a Subway position, understanding the process will help you prepare. Testing procedures emphasize accuracy, privacy, and chain-of-custody controls.

Types Of Drug Tests Used

Common drug tests used by employers include urine, saliva (oral fluid), hair, and occasionally blood tests. Urine tests are the most common pre-employment method because they balance cost and detection capability; saliva is used when recent use detection is important.

• Urine: common, cost-effective, detects THC metabolites.
• Saliva: faster and better for recent use, often used for reasonable suspicion testing.
• Hair: long detection window, used less frequently for routine hires.
• Blood: more accurate for current impairment but usually reserved for incidents or legal situations.

Testing Process And Timeline

After a conditional offer, you'll receive instructions for the testing location and timeframe. Collection is done by a third-party clinic with chain-of-custody documentation, and initial lab screens typically return in 24–72 hours; confirmatory testing may add time.

Confidentiality And Recordkeeping

Drug test results are protected as part of personnel records and are typically handled by the testing service and the employer's designated HR contact. Results are retained according to local laws and the franchise's recordkeeping policies, and medical information is treated with privacy safeguards.

Positive Result Procedures And Appeals

If a test is positive, many testing programs include a confirmatory test (GC-MS or LC-MS/MS) and review by a Medical Review Officer (MRO). You generally have the right to explain prescription medications or request a split-sample retest; ask the hiring manager for the franchise's official appeal process and timelines.

How To Prepare For A Drug Test

To prepare, read the instructions provided by the employer, bring valid ID, and disclose any prescription medications when requested. Avoid attempting unverified "cleanse" products—saliva and urine testing detect common tampering—and be honest about medical marijuana or prescription use if it could affect results.

FAQ

Does Subway Test for Weed?

It depends — Subway does not have a single nationwide testing policy because most locations are independently franchised. Individual franchise owners set testing rules and state or local laws can restrict or influence whether and how employers test for marijuana. Ask the hiring manager or check the job posting to confirm the policy at the specific store.

Does Subway Test at Orientation?

Testing at orientation varies by location and franchise owner; some stores schedule required drug screens during orientation while others require testing before orientation or not at all. Orientation is commonly when managers explain any pre-employment requirements, so expect to be told if a test is needed as part of onboarding. Bring valid ID and be prepared to sign consent forms if testing is required.

Does Subway Test New Hires?

Many franchise locations require pre-employment drug screening for new hires, but this is not universal and depends on the franchise, the role, and local rules. Often employers issue a conditional offer contingent on passing a drug test and background check, and failing to comply or testing positive can lead to the offer being withdrawn. If you need clarity, ask the store manager whether testing is standard for new hires at that location.

Does Subway Test at Interview?

Immediate drug testing during the initial interview is uncommon; interviews generally focus on qualifications and availability. If testing is required, the interviewer will usually notify you and arrange for testing later, such as at a clinic, during orientation, or before your first scheduled shift. Answer any testing-related questions honestly and ask for written details if you need them.

What Positions Does Subway Drug Test For?

Testing tends to target safety-sensitive roles such as delivery drivers, positions involving vehicle operation, and management roles that handle cash or safety oversight. Corporate or institutional contract locations may also have stricter screening requirements than typical entry-level crew positions. Ask about specific role requirements, especially if the job involves driving or client-mandated standards.

How does Subway's drug testing process work?

If testing is required, you will usually receive instructions after a conditional offer and be sent to a third-party clinic for collection under chain-of-custody procedures. Common tests include urine and saliva for pre-employment screening, with hair or blood used less often; initial lab results often return within a few days, while confirmatory testing can take longer. Test results are handled confidentially and shared with the hiring contact per local recordkeeping rules.

What should I do if I use medical marijuana or receive a positive result?

If you use prescribed medications or medical marijuana, disclose this when asked and be prepared to provide documentation when required during the screening process. Many testing programs include confirmatory testing and review by a Medical Review Officer, and franchises may offer an appeal or retest policy — request the franchise’s written procedures to understand your options. Keep communications factual and ask the manager for the next steps if a positive result occurs.