Hub · Panels

Drug test panels

A 'panel' is the menu of analytes a lab will look for. The 5-panel is the workplace default; the DOT 5-panel is the federally regulated version (now with fentanyl, effective July 7, 2025); the 10-panel adds prescription depressants.

Common workplace

Standard 5-Panel Drug Test

The 5-panel — historically the "SAMHSA-5" — is the most common workplace drug screen. It mirrors the federal panel's legacy composition (THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, PCP) and is widely adopted in non-DOT employer programs as well.

 Federally regulated

DOT 5-Panel (Federal Regulated)

The DOT-regulated 5-panel covers transportation-industry safety-sensitive employees under 49 CFR Part 40 and SAMHSA Mandatory Guidelines. As of July 7, 2025, the federal panel was updated to include fentanyl and norfentanyl.

 Common workplace

Standard 10-Panel Drug Test

The 10-panel extends the 5-panel with prescription depressants and other commonly monitored substances. It is widely used in healthcare, recovery monitoring, and safety-sensitive non-DOT employment.

 Common workplace

4-Panel Drug Test

The 4-panel is a stripped-down screen typically used by employers in jurisdictions where cannabis testing is restricted, or by programs targeting only the most prevalent classes of misuse.

How to pick a panel

Panel choice is driven by three questions: Is the program federally regulated? Do you need to monitor prescription depressants? And does your jurisdiction restrict cannabis testing?

  • DOT-regulated employees: You must use the DOT 5-panel under 49 CFR Part 40.
  • Most private-sector employers: The standard 5-panel is the most common choice.
  • Healthcare / recovery / safety-sensitive non-DOT: 10-panel adds benzodiazepines, barbiturates, methadone, and additional opioids.
  • Cannabis-restricted jurisdictions: The 4-panel drops THC; some employers use it where state law restricts cannabis testing.