Expert: Peter L. - 7/21/2011

Question
Hi Peter, my name is Jeremy and I'm 18 years old.  I joined the Army back in october and I am leaving for basic training on august 1st, 11 days.  Two days ago, I was with some friends and we were drinking a little and against my better judgement, I smoked a little marijuana.  It was only about 3 hits.  Based on what people have told me and what I see on the internet, I should pass the test at the meps center. I recently just bought an at home test for marijuana.  I took it and it read negative.  However, I know the test at meps will be a little more sensitive.  I am about 5'10 and weigh at 190.  I am very worried I will not pass this test because this is my future and I have been looking forward to this for a long time.  Will I pass the test? Thanks.

Answer
Hi Jeremy,

Today's drug screening tests are very sensitive.  It's hard to say if the amount you smoked will turn up positive.  Depends on the type of testing they do.

If you don't pass, I'd ask them to test you again after a bit of time.  Maybe they will still allow you to do the basic training and test you later.  You'll have to be pretty convincing in your statements that this was "against your better judgement".  

Best of luck with this,
Peter