No, the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) does not administer a drug test every single time you visit. A urinalysis drug test is a standard, one-time part of the initial medical examination for enlistment. However, you may be tested again if specific circumstances apply.

The mandatory drug screen occurs during your first full medical processing day at MEPS when you are examined for final qualification. This is typically when you are swearing into the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) or shipping out to basic training. The test is a Department of Defense (DoD) approved 10 panel urinalysis, and a positive result leads to immediate disqualification.

While not routine for every visit, you can be subject to an additional drug test at MEPS under certain conditions. The most common reasons for a subsequent test include:

Returning after a prolonged absence, such as more than 30 days since your last processing.
Having a previously submitted sample deemed “invalid” or “inadequate” by the lab, requiring a new one.
Exhibiting behavior that raises suspicion of drug use during your visit.
Processing for a different branch of service than you initially applied to, as your file may not transfer completely.
A random selection as part of the MEPS’ quality assurance procedures, though this is less common for applicants.

The safest approach is to assume you could be tested on any day you are at MEPS and to conduct yourself accordingly. A positive test at any point will permanently disqualify you from joining the branch you are processing with that day.

For more on military culture and informal rules, you can read about what “Rule 13” means.

For the official military policy on drug testing of applicants, you can refer to the Department of Defense Instruction on Personnel Drug Abuse Testing Program.