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Military Urinalysis “Retest” After a Positive Result
After a positive urinalysis, many commands request a second sample and call it a “retest.” In most cases, it is not a retest of the original specimen—it is a new urinalysis. This page explains why the second test is usually negative even when the first result was positive, what the second test can (and cannot) prove, and how to protect yourself if you are under investigation.
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Key point: A second test does not “erase” the first result. It usually does not invalidate the original positive urinalysis. But it can matter for how a command views the case and the member’s usage pattern. (It also creates new legal risk if mishandled.)
Typical Command Timeline After a Urinalysis
Although exact timing varies by unit and lab flow, a common sequence looks like this:
| Approx. Day | What Typically Happens |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Urinalysis collected and secured for shipment/storage. |
| Days 2–5 | Shipment to a military drug lab (timing varies by location and shipping). |
| Days 5–10 | Receipt at lab and placement into secure storage / processing queue. |
| Days 10–20 | Inspection of specimens and initial testing. |
| Days 20–30 | Screening and confirmation completed; results reported back through official channels. |
Why the “Retest” Is Often Negative
For many drugs, the “detection window” is generally measured in days—not weeks. That means by the time a command receives the positive result, notifies the member, and requests a second sample, the drug that drove the first positive is often no longer detectable—unless there is new use.
Practical takeaway: A negative second test may be consistent with “no further use” after the first event. It does not automatically prove the first result was wrong.
Is a Second Urinalysis Helpful?
If the second test is NEGATIVE
- It may support an argument that the member is not a frequent or chronic user.
- It can help with mitigation themes depending on the forum (command discretion, admin processing, etc.).
- It typically does not negate the original positive lab report.
If the second test is POSITIVE
- It is usually damaging because it suggests additional ingestion/use after the first test.
- It can create an additional basis for adverse action and can complicate mitigation arguments.
- In narrow situations, pattern/levels may raise questions (e.g., very high initial, very low later), but this is fact-specific.
What to Do If You Receive a Positive Urinalysis Notice
- Make no statements to anyone (command, friends, investigators) before counsel.
- Do not consent to searches (including device searches). For any additional sample request, get legal advice immediately.
- Speak promptly with an experienced military defense lawyer about the request for a second sample and the overall strategy.
- Do not waive hearing rights in separation processing without a case-specific plan.
FAQ
Is the second sample a “retest” of my original urine?
Usually no. Commands often use “retest” to mean a second, new collection. A true retest would involve the original specimen (and lab processes), which is a different issue.
Will a negative second test “beat” the first positive?
Typically, no. A negative second test may be useful for mitigation or usage-pattern arguments, but it usually does not invalidate the original lab-confirmed result by itself.
Should I “explain” the result to my command right away?
Be careful. Early explanations can lock you into a narrative before you see the documentation and understand the evidence. Talk to counsel first.
Related Pages
Positive urinalysis? Early decisions shape the record and your options.
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Disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not legal advice for any specific case.