Introduction
If you’re on probation in Texas—or advising someone who is—knowing the drug testing rules is essential. Texas courts often make drug testing a condition of community supervision, deferred adjudication, or probation for criminal or drug offenses. Understanding when tests happen, what kinds of tests are used, and what the consequences are can help you stay compliant.
What Texas Law Says About Probation & Drug Testing
Texas law gives courts broad discretion to require drug testing as part of probation or community supervision. Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 42A.301, courts may impose conditions—including drug tests—based on the offense or defendant’s history.
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) requires parole officers to test offenders for illicit substances. Many county probation departments, like Harris County CSCD, list drug testing as a standard probation condition.
When & How Often Are Tests Done?
Testing frequency varies by county and probation officer discretion. You may be subject to:
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Regularly scheduled tests (often during probation check-ins).
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Random tests requested without notice.
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County-level rules requiring you to submit a sample “any time a request is made.”
What Types of Drug Tests Are Used
Texas probation relies on several test types, depending on context:
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Urinalysis — most common, detects a wide range of substances.
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Hair follicle tests — used for long-term detection (weeks to months).
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Breath tests — common in DUI/DWI probation.
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Saliva or blood tests — occasionally used for specific cases.
What Happens If You Fail a Drug Test
Failing a probation drug test in Texas can trigger escalating consequences, including:
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Increased supervision or more frequent testing.
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Modified probation terms with stricter conditions.
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Revocation of probation leading to jail or prison.
Legal Rights & Protections
Probationers do retain certain rights:
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Due process before revocation.
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The ability to contest test results due to lab errors or medical reasons.
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Right to clear notice of which substances and methods are prohibited.
Staying Compliant
If you’re under probation supervision:
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Read your probation order carefully.
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Follow county-specific rules (check your local CSCD).
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Avoid both illegal substances and unapproved prescriptions.
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Keep records of any prescriptions, test notices, or counseling.
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Consult legal counsel if you face a violation.
For Providers: Meeting Compliance Standards
Probation departments require reliable, court-admissible testing.
That’s why they use FDA-cleared and CLIA-waived kits.
At DrugScreens.com, we provide drug screening solutions, including urine, hair, and saliva drug tests trusted by courts, clinics, and recovery programs.
Conclusion
Texas probation drug testing rules are strict but clear. Courts and probation officers can order random or scheduled tests, using multiple specimen types.
Failing a test may result in stricter conditions, treatment, or even revocation.
Whether you’re navigating probation yourself or supplying compliant testing kits, understanding the rules ensures fairness, safety, and compliance.
With DrugScreens.com kits, probation testing can be reliable, defensible, and court-approved.
