What Drugs Are Tested in a 5-Panel Drug Screen?

A 5-panel drug screen typically tests for marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opioids or opiates, and phencyclidine (PCP). These names describe broad drug categories rather than a universal list of every substance the test can detect. The exact substances included depend on the test ordered, and a DOT-regulated test follows a specific federal panel that can differ from a non-DOT panel. A result indicates whether the specimen showed evidence of substances included in the test, but it does not establish whether someone is impaired at the time of testing. If you are taking a test or setting a workplace policy, confirm the panel details and how results will be reviewed instead of relying on the “5-panel” label alone.

The Five Drug Categories in a 5-Panel Screen

A panel is a group of substances a test is designed to detect. A standard 5-panel screen includes marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids or opiates, and PCP. The substances within each category can vary, particularly in the opioid category, so the test order matters.

Marijuana (THC)

This category looks for THC-related metabolites associated with marijuana use. Whether marijuana is included and how a result is handled can depend on the testing program and workplace policy. Expectations may also differ by state, so employers should explain their policy to people who will be tested.

Cocaine

The cocaine panel looks for metabolites associated with cocaine use. An initial screening result that is non-negative is not necessarily final. It may proceed to confirmation and review under the applicable program.

Amphetamines

For DOT-regulated testing, confirmatory testing in this category includes amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDMA, and MDA. The DOT’s 5 Panel Notice describes these substances. A non-negative screening result can have more than one explanation, and medications may be relevant during review. Participants should follow the documented process rather than assume what an initial result means.

Opioids or Opiates

This category is where DOT and non-DOT panels can differ substantially. A basic non-DOT 5-panel test has traditionally screened for the older opiates group, primarily codeine and morphine. Some tests may also include 6-acetylmorphine, or 6-AM, which is a heroin metabolite. The specific test order determines what is included.

DOT testing uses an expanded opioid list: codeine, morphine, 6-AM, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxycodone, and oxymorphone. The DOT changed the category label from “opiates” to “opioids” to reflect this broader group, as described in its 5 Panel Notice. Consequently, a DOT-regulated test can include prescription pain medications such as hydrocodone and oxycodone that a basic non-DOT panel may not cover unless they are specifically ordered.

Phencyclidine (PCP)

PCP is the fifth category in a standard 5-panel screen. Its inclusion does not mean the test covers every other drug or medication.

What a 5-Panel Test May Not Include

A 5-panel test has a defined scope. Depending on the panel ordered, it may not include benzodiazepines, barbiturates, methadone, fentanyl, synthetic drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications outside the listed categories. The panel name alone does not confirm whether any particular substance is covered.

Employers may order broader testing based on the role, company policy, or a regulatory requirement. The test should match the organization’s written policy and actual needs. To avoid confusion, employers should identify the substances included rather than describe a panel as “comprehensive” without explaining its scope.

How DOT and Non-Dot Testing Differ

Employers conducting DOT-regulated testing must follow federal testing requirements. Although the required test is often called a 5-panel screen, DOT rules specify the analytes to be tested. These include the amphetamine-type substances and expanded opioid list described above.

For non-DOT testing, the label “5-panel” does not by itself identify every analyte, cutoff level, specimen type, or follow-up procedure. Before ordering a test, confirm the panel and whether the role is subject to DOT requirements. Employers should also document how a non-negative result will be handled so candidates and managers are not left to interpret the process informally.

What a Test Result Can and Cannot Tell You

A drug screen looks for evidence of specified substances or their metabolites in a specimen. A result alone does not provide a complete picture of a person’s health or work performance. It also does not establish current impairment.

For employers, this distinction means a screening result should be handled through a defined review process rather than treated as proof of on-the-job impairment. For test participants, the testing notice is the best source for the panel and applicable procedures. Follow the stated review process because panels and procedures vary.

Using a 5-Panel Screen in the Workplace

A 5-panel test may suit a workplace screening program when an organization wants to test for the five common categories without ordering a broader panel. A clear policy should explain who is subject to testing, which panel is used, whether DOT requirements apply, how results are reviewed, and what steps follow a verified result. Communicating these points helps candidates understand what is being requested and supports consistent application by managers.

For organizations managing contingent workers, drug screening may be one part of a broader process for communicating role requirements and coordinating screening steps. The policy should still identify the applicable panel and review process rather than relying on a general label.

*This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice.