The time it takes for a drug test result to come back typically depends on the type of test and whether the result is negative or positive. For the most common urine drug tests, negative results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours. However, if the test is positive or inconclusive, it can take longer—often 3 to 6 days—to complete confirmatory testing. Other types of drug tests, such as hair follicle tests, generally take longer, around 7 to 10 days for results. Here are some specifics:

• Urine drug test negative results: about 1 to 2 days.
• Urine drug test positive or confirmatory testing: from 3 up to 6 days.
• Hair follicle test results: 7 to 10 days.
• Factors influencing timing include the number of drugs tested for, lab workload, and whether additional confirmatory tests are needed.

Instant urine drug tests can give results within minutes but are typically preliminary and less comprehensive compared to lab tests.