Recent alcohol detection using a urine sample
Assess recent alcohol consumption beyond standard urine alcohol testing.
The usual detection period is approximately 24–72 hours.
Book Your EtG Test Check whether EtG suits youSample
Urine
Typical window
Approximately 24–72 hours
Results
Usually 7 working days
Attendance
Walk-in after confirmation
EtG means ethyl glucuronide, a direct metabolite of alcohol.
The body produces EtG while processing consumed alcohol.
EtG remains detectable after alcohol itself has usually cleared.
This makes urine EtG useful for assessing recent consumption.
Review recent alcohol use using a sensitive urine marker.
Provide objective information during supported abstinence monitoring.
Suitable when an organisation specifically requests urine EtG.
May support cases requiring documented recent alcohol testing.
Confirm the required test and reporting standard before ordering.
Urine EtG commonly detects alcohol for approximately 24–72 hours.
Detection may persist longer following heavier or repeated consumption.
Lighter drinking may produce a much shorter detection period.
Hydration, metabolism, collection timing and thresholds affect every result.
Choose the test matching the required assessment period.
| Test | Typical period | Sample | Common purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urine EtG | Approximately 24–72 hours | Urine | Recent exposure beyond standard alcohol testing |
| Urine alcohol | Short recent-use window | Urine | Very recent alcohol exposure |
| CDT | Approximately 2–3 weeks | Blood | Sustained heavy drinking and DVLA preparation |
| PEth | Approximately 3–4 weeks | Blood | Alcohol exposure over recent weeks |
Assessment periods vary with consumption, metabolism and collection timing.
A detected result usually supports recent alcohol exposure.
It cannot precisely calculate consumed drinks or alcohol units.
A negative result cannot exclude every earlier drinking episode.
Employment or legal decisions require appropriate professional interpretation.
The Doctors Laboratory
76 Wimpole Street
London W1G 9RT
Monday–Friday: 7am–7pm
Saturday: 7am–1pm
Sunday: 8am–11am
Walk in during opening hours after receiving confirmation.
Bring original photo identification. Phone images and photocopies are unacceptable.
Results are usually available within seven working days.
Laboratory processing begins after receiving your urine sample.
The reviewed report arrives securely by email.
Book early when working towards a legal or workplace deadline.
Measure a direct metabolite of consumed alcohol.
Testing uses UKAS-accredited The Doctors Laboratory.
Reports receive review before secure email delivery.
We have streamlined private testing since 2015.
It detects ethyl glucuronide, produced when the body processes alcohol.
The usual window is 24–72 hours, although individual results vary.
That term is marketing shorthand. Eighty-hour detection is never guaranteed.
No. The level cannot precisely calculate consumed alcohol units.
Yes. Urine concentration can influence detection and result interpretation.
Significant exposure may matter. Interpretation depends upon thresholds and circumstances.
No. Walk in after receiving your attendance confirmation.
Order online and receive your London attendance confirmation.
Book Your EtG TestSince 2015, we’ve provided confidential drug and alcohol testing across London.
We support individuals, employers, solicitors, social workers and other organisations.
Order online, then attend our Central London Patient Reception after confirmation. Selected home-testing options are also available.
Samples are analysed by UKAS-accredited laboratories, including The Doctors Laboratory. Results are reviewed and sent securely by email.
Need help choosing the correct test?
Call 0207 871 3015 or email enquiry@drugtest.london.
Drug Test London is a brand of AIS Health Ltd. Company number: 09835294.