Alcohol can be detected in urine for varying lengths of time depending on the type of test used and the amount of alcohol consumed:

• Standard ethanol urine tests detect unmetabolized alcohol and typically identify alcohol up to 12 hours after the last drink

• More sensitive tests that detect alcohol metabolites, such as ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl sulfate (EtS) , can detect alcohol consumption for a longer period, generally between 24 to 72 hours , and in some cases up to 80 hours (about 3 to 4 days) after drinking, especially following heavy alcohol use

Factors influencing detection time include the amount of alcohol consumed (heavy drinking extends detection), individual metabolism, hydration, gender, body weight, and liver function

. In summary, alcohol itself is usually detectable in urine for up to 12-24 hours, but its metabolites can be detected for up to 80 hours after consumption, making urine tests a reliable method to monitor recent alcohol use over several days