After you’ve posted bail, staying out of jail isn’t automatic—you have to follow bail conditions carefully.
One of the most common bail conditions is mandatory drug testing. Failing to understand (and follow) the rules can quickly send you back behind bars.
This blog covers what you need to know about drug testing during bail—and the simple mistakes that can cost you your freedom.
Bail conditions are court-ordered rules you must follow while you await trial. They are meant to make sure you show up for court and stay out of trouble while on release.
Common bail conditions include:
At Big Mike Bail Bonds, we break down all bail conditions clearly at the time of your release—so you know exactly what’s expected from day one. Learn more about how bail conditions work.
Missing even one scheduled test is often treated as seriously as a positive result. The court and your bail bondsman will assume you are avoiding detection.
Tip: Always show up on time. If an emergency happens, communicate with your bail agent immediately.
Some substances stay in your body for days or even weeks after use. Even a single slip-up can trigger a positive result and violate your bail terms.
Check out the National Institute on Drug Abuse's guide to see how long different substances can stay in your system.
You might think your prescribed medication is safe—but it could still trigger a positive test.
Hiding it never helps—it can only make the situation worse.
NOTE ON MARIJUANA (AS OF 2025): While marijuana is slowly becoming legal in different states, it is still ILLEGAL in North Carolina and WILL cause you to fail a court ordered drug test.
Some defendants must test:
If you don’t fully understand your testing schedule, you could violate your conditions without meaning to. Make sure to find out and stick to it.
Your bail bondsman is there to help you stay compliant. If something changes with your job, residence, or ability to make a scheduled test—call them immediately.
Reach out to Big Mike Bail Bonds anytime—we’re available 24/7 to answer questions.
Some defendants attempt to “cheat” tests by using fake samples.
Modern drug testing facilities have strict procedures to detect tampering.
If you get caught trying to cheat a test, your bond can be revoked immediately—and you may face additional criminal charges.
Failing a drug test while released on bail can have serious consequences, including:
According to the Department of Justice, courts treat violations of pretrial release conditions very seriously because they view it as a sign the defendant is not following the law while awaiting trial.
At Big Mike Bail Bonds, we’re here to help you succeed while you’re out on bail.
Need help starting your bail application? Apply online today.
It varies based on the charges and court orders. Some people test weekly, others randomly.
If you disclosed it properly and have documentation, you can often avoid bond violation—but hiding prescriptions can hurt your case.
Yes. Many bail conditions allow for random drug testing at any time.
Missing even a single test can result in a warrant for your arrest or revocation of your bond. Always show up—or communicate immediately if you have an emergency.
First time getting arrested for a drug-related charge? Read our blog on what to do after your first offense for drug possession.
When it comes to bail conditions—especially drug testing—small mistakes can have huge consequences. Staying informed and staying in touch with your bail bondsman can make the difference between staying free and ending up back in jail.
At Big Mike Bail Bonds, we proudly serve Johnston, Wake, Wayne, and the surrounding counties. If you’re searching for bail bonds near you, we’re ready to help—24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Contact Big Mike Bail Bonds today or call 919-934-5656 for immediate assistance.