I have been voluntarily taking this test for a couple months and never had more than 3 standard drinks at one time during any week (always a negative result). I recently had 5 drinks at one time and will be tested 5.5 days later. This is only 70g of ethanol and by the USDTL web site claims should not be positive... but of course I am worried.

What does not add up is that the web site claims 200g of alcohol triggers a positive test. The next sentence claims 1 drink/day for 6-7 days will trigger a positive. 200g alcohol equals about 14 drinks (14g/drink) yet they say 1 drink/day for 7 days will make a positive (that is only 98g alcohol). I have asked for clarification but they always refer me to my local lab who doesn't know the answer, they just collect samples.

Also, the cutoff is 20ng and I am 5'11", 205lb, 53 years old. Does anyone actually know How much consumption is required for a positive (more specifically, my situation)? Thanks!

Something doesn't add up... Voluntarily taking the test... and worrying about exact amounts to squeak by with a pass (which incidentally is impossible to guess because people vary so much as to liver function).


Simply abstain from all alcohol and you will pass. It really IS that easy.

The issues are total amount, plus long term use can add up.

Also what is the test cut off limits, there is no one "pass/fail" the people requesting the test will set what level passes or fails.

I am really surprised what you have done, is passing, but it must be just slightly under, so yes you need to worry with the additional drinking